Each October, advocates, survivors and supporters recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).

This October, the District Attorney’s Office Victim Services Unit is partnering with the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) and other state and territorial coalitions to start a coordinated national conversation about domestic violence and how all Americans can 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 lifetime. Anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity or orientation, or socio-economic 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.

All month, the District Attorney’s Office and NNEDV will be sharing content on social media intended to raise awareness and educate the public on the complex dynamics of domestic violence. A call to action is planned designed to engage advocates, partners, and the public in starting a national conversation.

On Thursday, Oct. 28 all Stanislaus County residents are encouraged to wear purple in support of victims and survivors and a commitment to end the violence.

Free and confidential help is available 24/7 for individuals experiencing domestic violence by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at thehotline.org or 1 (800) 799-SAFE (7233); or the Haven Women’s Center of Modesto’s 24-hour crisis line at 577-5980.

Victims of domestic violence who would like more information about services, should call the DA’s Victim Services Unit at 525-5541.