DVAM Then & Now
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) evolved from a single day.
In October 1981, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence called for a national “Day of Unity” to raise awareness of gender-based violence and to support survivors. The Day of Unity soon became an entire week (to allow more time for coordination at the local, state, and national levels), during which participants across the country gathered to mourn the lives lost to domestic violence, celebrate the strength and resilience of survivors, and connect across like-minded organizations.
Six years later, in October 1987, the United States observed its first Domestic Violence Awareness Month and launched the first national domestic violence toll-free hotline. Then, in 1989, Congress passed Public Law 101-112, making it official: October is now National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Today we still use DVAM to mourn the people we’ve lost, celebrate survivors and the strength it takes to forge a new life after abuse, and connect with our peer organizations in shared purpose. We hope you will join us.
What You Can Do
There are so many ways to let survivors know we are with them, always.
- Post resources on social media about domestic violence! Literally raise awareness. Just a quick post saying “October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Check out thehotline.org for more info if you or someone you know needs help.” Such a simple message from more people would go a long way in helping reach folks who might need it.
- Follow us on social media and share our DVAM posts! Raise more awareness with your networks. Wear your values on your sleeve and show people you care about survivors. You can share from LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.
- Become an Ascend Justice Sustainer Circle member! Choose your monthly donation and help us by providing our organization with a stable base of community support. Help us help more survivors.
- Make a one-time donation today! We can always use your support, and DVAM is the perfect time to give in honor of a survivor in your life.
- Become a volunteer, or plan to join our Board or Young Professionals Board next time we’re recruiting! Keep an eye on our social media and newsletter for upcoming recruitment opportunities!
- Sign up for our newsletter and advocacy opportunities so you know when we need help from our community!
- Bring a friend to one of the many events happening in our community this month.
Learn From Survivors
