The national theme of Domestic Violence Awareness Month – Heal, Hold, and Center – emphasizes efforts to help heal from violence and oppression, hold space for survivors, and center those most marginalized to end domestic violence
Seattle – Mayor Bruce Harrell and members of the City Council joined together yesterday to issue a proclamation recognizing the month of October as “Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Seattle” and Thursday, October 17, 2024, as “Purple Thursday.”
On a typical day in 2023, domestic violence hotlines in Washington State received 562 contacts, averaging more than 23 contacts per hour, according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence. And in 2022, 53 people were victims of domestic violence homicide, as tracked by the Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month, held annually in October, is meant to raise awareness about domestic violence, show support for victims and survivors, and amplify resources as we work to make Seattle a place where domestic violence does not exist.
“Everyone deserves to be in a safe, healthy relationship that is free of abuse. We all have a role to play in interrupting cycles of violence and uplifting the voices of survivors as we collectively work to end domestic and intimate partner violence – we cannot afford to be silent on this issue which has devastating impacts for families and communities across our city,” said Mayor Harrell. “I encourage all Seattleites to use this important month to raise awareness about the prevalence of domestic partner violence and learn how to support a family, friend, or neighbor who may need help.”
“Domestic violence is an issue that we need to continue to shine a spotlight on,” said Councilmember Cathy Moore, who chairs the council’s Housing & Human Services Committee. “I’m proud the City of Seattle consistently offers support and resources to people impacted by domestic violence. Today’s proclamation helps bring awareness to this issue which in turn will help promote the available resources to the people who need it most. To anyone who has been impacted by domestic violence, there is help, there is hope, and you can call either of the numbers below to receive support.”
Since its inception in 1989, the Mayor’s Office on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (MODVSA) within the Human Services Department has been charged with leading the City of Seattle’s response to Gender-Based Violence and has expanded beyond domestic violence to include sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes of coercive control.
The City of Seattle invests $14 million annually in strategies to prevent, intervene, and hold offenders accountable, while promoting healing, services, and community support for those impacted by domestic violence. This work is done in partnership with 35 organizations who help provide services to more than 7,500 survivors and their families each year.
“Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate. It affects millions of people of every race, age, gender, sexuality, religion, education level, or economic status,” said Tanya Kim, Director of the Seattle Human Services Department. “It’s not just physical violence—it’s yelling, humiliation, stalking, manipulation, financial coercion, threats, and isolation. The City continues to build strong partnerships with community to prevent domestic violence and support survivors in their journey to healing.”
Along with providing supportive resources for victims and survivors, the City also works to create a fair, healthy economy where worker’s rights are protected. The Paid Sick and Safe Time (PSST) ordinance requires employers to provide employees with paid leave for absences related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. In 2023, Seattle became the first jurisdiction in the country to provide these benefits to app-based workers on a permanent basis.
“Workers impacted by domestic violence need access to paid sick and safe time, which reduces the stigma and allows individuals to prioritize their safety and well-being during a challenging time,” said Office of Labor Standards (OLS) Director, Steven Marchese. “Under the law, workers experiencing domestic violence can take necessary time off to seek medical care, attend court hearings, find safe housing, or access support services without the added stress of losing income. Through outreach, education, and enforcement, OLS ensures workers know their rights and businesses comply with the law’s requirements.”
Domestic violence thrives when we are silent; but if we take a stand and work together, we can end domestic violence. To show support for victims and survivors of domestic violence, the City is encouraging employees and members of the community to wear purple on Thursday, October 17, 2024. The “Purple Thursday” campaign is a national effort to raise awareness about domestic violence and let victims and survivors know that help is available.
Post a photo, hold a sign, or share a personal story if you are comfortable, and use the social media hashtags #DVAM and #PurpleThursday.
“Domestic violence remains a critical public health issue that affects women, families, and communities across Seattle,” said Seattle Women’s Commission Co-Chairs Emily Rose Barr and Krystal Guerrero. “We must prioritize the voices of survivors, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need. Together, we can dismantle the barriers that allow violence to persist and foster a culture of safety, respect, and empowerment for all.”
If you or someone you know needs free, confidential assistance, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) or call the 24/7 DVHopeline at (877) 737-0242.
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