October 16 is Purple Thursday, a national day to show support for survivors during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Participation is easy. Make plans to wear purple t-shirts, sweaters, pants, ties, and shoes on Thursday, October 16 to identify yourself as an advocate for survivors and call for an end to the abuse.

Post your purple selfie on social media to let friends and family know why this mission is important to you. Tag us in your posts, so we can celebrate your participation!

(And if you live or work in Lexington, double the awareness! Wear your purple again on October 23 for the Domestic and Sexual Violence Prevention Coalition’s Purple Thursday event.)

Why is Purple Thursday Important? 

Purple Thursday is important to our mission because raising awareness is an essential part of working to end the cycle of abuse. It’s a day to identify yourself as an advocate and raise awareness.

Imagine being told no one will believe you. That you’re unworthy of better. Being gaslighted and wondering if you’re to blame.

But on this day you see purple at your workplace, the grocery store, the soccer game, on social media. You see friends, family, and strangers demonstrating they will believe you. That you’re worthy. Showing they will support you.

Why Purple? 

The color purple is a symbol of peace, courage, survival, honor, and dedication to ending violence. It’s believed the color’s connection to our mission might have begun during women’s suffrage.   

In 1978, thousands of advocates for women’s equal rights wore purple when they marched in Washington, D.C. Today the color honors this history, survivors of abuse, and those lives that have been ended too early.   

Download the Purple Thursday flyer to promote the day in your community.

This is what a safe community looks like.

Let’s start conversations and be ready with resources. Think about why you’re participating in the day. What will you say when someone asks you why this mission matters to you? Write down our 24-hour Crisis Hotline, so you’re prepared if someone asks for help. That number is 800-544-2022.