BENTON COUNTY, Wash. – On Oct. 17, people across the nation took a stand against domestic violence by wearing purple.
The third Thursday of October is considered Domestic Violence Awareness Day, also known as Purple Thursday, which is part of October’s National Domestic Violence awareness month. Purple being chosen to wear in solidarity and support of those who have lived and died from domestic violence.
According to the US Department of Justice, domestic violence can be defined as abuse or aggression occurring in romantic relationships. Abuse encompass various behaviors, including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological and other coercive actions.
Statistics from the CDC highlight the prevalence of this issue. Every minute, 32 people in the U.S. experience domestic violence. Nearly 50% of women and 40% of men report experiencing it at some point in their lives.
The Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence reported 24 domestic violence homicide deaths and five suicides in 2023 across all counties in the state. Since 1997, over 1100 people have been killed by domestic violence in Washington State.
Angie Pacheco, Executive Director of the Domestic Violence Services of Benton and Franklin Counties, emphasized their mission to assist those in need.
“If you feel threatened for yourself or your children or a loved one that you believe is suffering from domestic violence, please call our helpline or please call 911 and get help. Our goal is to do the best job that we can do to eliminate having to do another silhouette for our annual vigil,” Pacheco said.
Pacheco added that they’d be holding a vigil this Oct. 25 from 5:30 – 8 p.m. at the Legacy Center in Pasco.
“It’s free and we take the time to talk about domestic violence, what’s happening in our community, and to honor any of the families.”
Numerous organizations are poised to assist those facing domestic violence situations in Eastern Washington and Eastern Oregon. Those services include:
Domestic Violence Services of Benton and Franklin CountiesYWCA Yakima Domestic Violence ServicesYWCA Walla Walla Domestic Violence ServicesDomestic Violence Services, Inc. (Oregon)Aspen Victim Advocacy Services (Ellensburg)
To get help, individuals can also reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
