October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), and we’re calling the community in because it’s on all of us to end domestic violence.
For the past year and a half, survivors of abuse have been facing two crises: The COVID-19 pandemic and violence at home. Even for survivors who are no longer in violent situations, the pandemic has raised barriers to safety with loss of income, lack of childcare support and threats to safe, stable housing, leaving a long-lasting impact. Survivors need our support on their journey to healing and rebuilding their lives after abuse.
This DVAM, you can support survivors in your community by learning ways to be an active bystander. Domestic violence affects us all, and it is crucial to know the signs of abuse and learn where to get support or how to provide resources to someone experiencing dangerous situations.
How can you get involved? Follow us on social media to hear stories from community partners working to address root causes of domestic violence, attend our upcoming training sessions for community members and check out our statewide public awareness campaign below calling Rhode Islanders in to learn more about subtle and commonly overlooked forms of abuse.
This DVAM, you can hear our radio and Pandora public service announcements in English and Spanish, view our new TV public service announcements across local stations, listen to various interviews with local media and see billboards and ads displayed throughout our state.
The "Know the Signs" campaign focuses on recognizing lesser-known forms of abuse, like controlling a partner's finances, forcing a partner to share passwords and unwanted touching or grabbing.
Visit our Teen Center to find resources and information for young people in R.I., and to learn about our public awareness efforts in February, national Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.
Learn more about our previous public awareness campaigns below.
