October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Stand up now and spread the word on why awareness about domestic violence is so crucial. Domestic violence affects millions of people each year; according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by their intimate partner. Show your support to victims, survivors, and network change by wearing purple! The purple ribbon, symbolizing courage, honor, and survival, represents awareness surrounding domestic violence and may be utilized on clothing, jewelry, or other items to inform the public on the issue. Participating or volunteering in events dedicated toward ending the abuse are additional measures that could be taken.

Syracuse offers several local projects committed to supporting domestic violence and abuse. The Vera House, Inc. provides informational advice relating to the rights and prosperity of victims. They also offer additional programs that help with services such as counseling, advocacy, or search for shelter. For The Vera House 24 Hour Crisis and Support Line, call (315) 468-3260. The LA LIGA Spanish Action League of Onondaga County, Inc. program service provides short and long-term counseling and referral for local shelter. For LA LIGA Spanish Action League of Onondaga County 24 Hour Domestic Violence Hotline, call (315) 410-0945. The Salvation Army of the Syracuse Area offers domestic violence services including clinical services, group counseling, and clinically supervised visitation accommodations through the SAVES Visitation Program. For Salvation Army’s domestic violence services, call (315) 479-3651.

Dolphins Against Violence (DAV) Club, here at Le Moyne College, is primarily focused on preventing sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, and stalking on campus. For information on how to join, please email Being an approved Student Government Association Club, DAV participates in the three hundred-thousand-dollar Campus Program grant from the Department of Justice awarded to Le Moyne in 2017. This three-year grant plans to strengthen the community on campus by teaching new skills and arranging assistance opportunities to students. In addition to student resources, faculty may participate in a program, run by [email protected], called “Don’t Cancel That Class”. This initiative provides custom presentations for a class expected to be missed due to professional or personal reasons.

The prevalence of domestic violence is frightening. Although blind to gender, domestic violence statistics strongly show prominence among women. 85% of domestic violence victims are women, and young boys that witness domestic violence are twice as likely to harm their own partners and children as adults. Education on local services and recognition of early signs may potentially save a life. Watch out for controlling, blaming, or threatening behavior happening to you or someone around you. Avoid being a bystander and speak up against domestic violence.