Domestic Violence Awareness Month

As we get set to roll into fall, you have the opportunity to see a lot of colors popping up, whether the orange pumpkins, white of a spooky ghost and black cats but there is another color to keep your eye on…purple! Purple is the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month which we recognize every October. Purple represents peace, courage and a dedication to ending violence. Domestic Violence Awareness Month has been recognized in our country since 1987 and was formalized by Congress 2 years later. There are 3 purposes for the month:
1. Recognize those who have been victims of domestic violence
2. Celebrate the survivors of domestic violence
3. Continue to spread the message that domestic violence is an unacceptable behavior in our Space Force.

What is domestic violence? According to the Department of Defense, domestic violence involves the use, attempt to, or threatened use of force or violence against a current or former spouse or intimate partner. This includes, physical, emotional and sexual assault as well as stalking. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence estimates that 11 million people per year are physically abused by their intimate partner and US Domestic Violence Hotlines receive 20,000 phone calls every day. Domestic violence can happen to anyone, it does not look at race, age, education or rank. This is an epidemic that is increasing on a yearly basis in our country.

So what can you do? The first step is to be familiar with the signs of domestic violence. Do not ignore the issue or hope that it just “goes away”. Let people know that you care about them and are willing to help. And finally get the word out that domestic violence is not acceptable to our military community. The Air/Space Force has a team of dedicated individuals at each of our Installations known as the Family Advocacy Program (FAP). The FAP team provides support, safety planning and resources to survivors of domestic violence. They also work with other military and local community organizations to promote healthy relationships and domestic violence awareness.

Remember no one is alone in our Air/Space Force community, every Guardian/Airmen and family member matters. Our Space Force leadership, from General Raymond and Chief Towberman to your Commanders and Supervisors, are all fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all of our Guardians/Airmen and dependents. Surrendering to domestic violence and the damage it causes is not an option for the Air and Space Force, every one of us can make difference in stopping domestic violence.

For additional resources, please contact your local Family Advocacy Team or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-44-ABUSE (22873), there are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.