The state of Arizona is actively turning shades of purple this October, but it's not for the aesthetics—it's part of a vital campaign. As reported by the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF), buildings including the Arizona State Capitol Executive Tower will be glowing purple in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This observance is a call to action, attempting to to shine a light on a pervasive issue that affects people across socioeconomic boundaries.
According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 40% of Arizonans have experienced some form of domestic abuse. The "Lighting Arizona Purple" initiative, now in its tenth year, encourages individuals and organizations throughout the state to display purple lighting as a symbol of support for survivors. "Working with domestic violence survivors was one of the most impactful experiences of my career," Governor Katie Hobbs said in a statement by GOYFF, reflecting on her time at the Sojourner Center, a domestic violence shelter.
The campaign isn't just about lighting up a few buildings; it's an educational and support mechanism as well. Governor Hobbs' Deputy Chief of Staff of Outreach and Engagement Tracy Lopes and the GOYFF Director Tonya Hamilton, along with other key figures, partook in the Kick-Off event, reinforcing the community's commitment to this cause. "The Lighting Arizona Purple campaign creates an opportunity for Arizonans to learn more about domestic violence and show support for victims and the numerous organizations that provide services to those in need," Hamilton told GOYFF.
To facilitate community involvement, the GOYFF has compiled a toolkit featuring graphics, sample text for social media, and the official 2024 Domestic Violence Awareness Month proclamation. The toolkit and more can be found at their website, which serves to aid statewide prevention and intervention efforts. Those looking to support the initiative can access these resources to help spread awareness and nurture safe spaces for families affected by domestic violence.
With the conversation around domestic violence growing louder, the state also aims to provide direct assistance to those in need. For anyone who may suspect that someone they know is in an abusive relationship, resources are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline operates 24/7 and can be reached confidentially at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY).
