County victim/witness program works to raise awareness about domestic violence

The Lincoln County Victim/Witness Program is partnering with the national #Every1KnowsSome1 campaign in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October. 

According to a press release from the program, the collaborative effort aims to shed light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence and empower people to come together as communities to address this epidemic.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month, held annually in October, allows communities nationwide to join forces to raise awareness about the far-reaching impact of domestic violence. The #Every1KnowsSome1 campaign focuses on the theme that everyone knows someone affected by domestic violence, whether they realize it or not.

Program officials are asking county residents to wear purple on Thursday, Oct. 17, to show support of domestic violence survivors and a commitment to ending abuse.

Participants are asked to take a selfie in their purple attire and share it on social media with #PurpleThursday #DVAM #Every1KnowsSome1.

One in three women, one in four men, and nearly half of LGBTQ+ people will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. High rates of domestic violence are not private, individual problems; they require community solutions. 

“By acknowledging this reality, we can collectively work toward ending domestic violence and creating safe, healthy communities for everyone,” county Victim/Witness Coordinator Kathleen Sheffield said. “Through a series of events and activities throughout the month, Lincoln County Victim/Witness Program seeks to engage community members in an open dialogue about domestic violence, its underlying causes and how to support survivors. We encourage everyone in the community to get involved and support the campaign during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 

In addition to Purple Thursday, a social media campaign using the hashtag #Every1KnowsSome1 will allow participants to share stories, resources and messages of hope, spreading the word and creating a united front against domestic violence.

Through these events and activities, the Lincoln County Victim/Witness Program aims to unite our community, encourage open conversations and create a supportive environment where survivors can find hope and healing.

For more information on the #Every1KnowsSome1 or to contact the local Victim/Witness Program, call 406-283-2451 or email at advocate@libby.org.