Each year, in October, advocates, survivors, and supporters recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).
This October, Allegany County Community Opportunities and Rural Development, Inc. (ACCORD) is partnering with the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) and other state and territorial coalitions across the nation to start a coordinated national conversation about domestic violence and how we can all contribute to changing the narrative on this overshadowed, but fundamental topic.
More prevalent than most realize, one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. Anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity or orientation, or socioeconomic status, can become a victim of domestic violence. This year’s campaign theme, #Every1KnowsSome1, strives to highlight how common domestic violence is and that it is more than physical violence.
On September 27, 2021, Curtis Crandall, Chairmen of the Allegany County Board of Legislators read a proclamation declaring October 2021 as Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness Month in Allegany County.
Throughout October, ACCORD’s Domestic Violence Program and NNEDV will be sharing content on ACCORD’s Facebook page to help raise awareness and educate the public on the complex dynamics of domestic violence. A week of action is planned for October 18 – 24, 2021 designed to engage advocates, partners, and the public in starting a national conversation. Purple Thursday is October 21, 2021, please wear purple to bring awareness to the pervasive problem of domestic violence.
Free and confidential help is available 24/7 for individuals experiencing domestic violence, including safe shelter, Family Offense Petition preparation, Support/Education Group, and Family Court Advocacy. Those seeking help may contact the ACCORD’s Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-593-5322.
