Domestic Violence
Awareness Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is held throughout the month of October as a way to bring advocates across the nation together to end domestic violence. Communities and advocacy organizations across the country will connect with one another in a true sense of unity to end domestic violence for good.
DVAM Toolkit Is Now Available!
Events
Project Purple
Each October domestic violence organizations coordinate and participate in local, state, and national events promoting advocacy and raising awareness.
Day of Unity
A Time of Reflection
The Day of Unity, now recognized on the first Monday in October, celebrates the origin of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This is a perfect time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going in the movement to end intimate partner violence.
On Monday, October 7, 2024, makes some time for this very special and historic day.
Purple Thursday
Show Your True Colors!
Purple Thursday or “Go Purple Day” is a national day of action each October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Everyone is encouraged to wear all things purple as a symbol of peace, courage, survival, honor, and personal dedication to domestic violence awareness.
On Thursday, October 17, 2024, put on your purple and stand up against family violence.
Texas Town Hall
In Their Honor
Gather with TCFV, elected officials, and your fellow Texans as we reveal the honest statics and the true stories behind domestic violence fatalities through our annual Honoring Texas Victims Report.
On Tuesday, October 3, 2025, reflect on yesterday, take action today, and push toward a safer tomorrow.
Town Hall 2024
HISTORY
United We Stand
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) evolved from the Day of Unity conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence in October 1981. The goal was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. The Day of Unity soon became an entire week devoted to a range of activities conducted at the local, state, and national levels. The activities conducted were as varied and diverse as the program sponsors but had common themes: mourning those who have died because of domestic violence, celebrating those who have survived, and connecting those who work to end violence.
In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed, and the first national domestic violence toll-free hotline was established. In 1989, Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Such legislation has passed every year since.