October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time when we come together as a community to shed light on an issue that affects millions of lives but often remains hidden behind closed doors. #Every1KnowsSome1 reminds us that everyone knows someone affected by domestic violence, whether we realize it or not.

It's a stark reality: one in four women, one in nine men, and nearly half of LGBTQ+ individuals will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

Domestic violence is not confined to specific demographics; it affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Yet, it disproportionately impacts survivors of color, survivors with disabilities, immigrant survivors, and others already experiencing marginalization and discrimination. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent the lives of individuals in our communities.

Domestic violence is more than just physical abuse; it encompasses various forms of control and harm within personal relationships. Emotional, sexual, and financial abuse are just as damaging as physical violence. Domestic violence thrives in silence, secrecy, and isolation. As communities, it is our responsibility to bring this issue into the open, to support survivors, and to challenge the culture of violence. We are not helpless bystanders; we are the agents of change. It's time to break the silence and acknowledge that DV requires community solutions. At the Center for Nonviolence, our mission is to provide education, support, & advocacy to end domestic and other forms of violence while modeling equality and power-sharing.

🌟 Here’s what you can do today to support our mission and the efforts needed in our communities to #BreakTheSilence:

• Every Thursday this month we will be sharing on Facebook and Instagram a fact about DV. Help spread awareness and #KnowTheFacts by sharing our posts and/or this blog.

• Donate to domestic violence awareness organizations like ours. Check out our October Fundraisers for DVAM blog or give here directly. 

• Reach out to the Center for Nonviolence if you or someone you know needs assistance or wants to learn more about domestic violence.

🙌🏽 Together, we can break the silence and create safe, healthy communities for everyone. 💜 Thank you!