Everyone Knows Someone

Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) reminds us that behind every statistic is a story—and behind every story is a community that can help rewrite the ending.

This year’s theme, Every1KnowsSome1, is a powerful reminder that domestic violence doesn’t only happen to “other people.” It happens in every neighborhood, across every background, age, and income level. Chances are, someone you know has been affected.

What It Really Means

When we say “Every1KnowsSome1,” we’re naming a truth that often goes unseen. You might know someone who’s:

• Quietly walking on eggshells at home.

• Making excuses for a partner’s controlling behavior.

• Struggling to rebuild after leaving an abusive situation.

Sometimes, you are the person they trust most. That’s why awareness matters—not just for survivors, but for all of us.

How You Can Make a Difference

Supporting survivors doesn’t require special training or a perfect plan. It begins with compassion:

1. Listen without judgment. Believe what you hear.

2. Avoid asking “why.” Questions like “why didn’t you leave?” put responsibility on the victim instead of the abuser.

3. Offer choices. Ask, “What would feel safe for you right now?”

4. Share resources. Connect them to the Violence Prevention Center or the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-SAFE).

Each small act of support chips away at stigma and isolation.

Building a Community of Safety

Throughout October, you’ll see purple ribbons across St. Clair, Monroe, and Randolph counties as part of our Paint the Town Purple campaign. Those ribbons represent awareness, but they also represent action—businesses, schools, and neighbors taking a visible stand for safety.

When a community learns, believes, and responds together, we change the story.

Because truly, Every1KnowsSome1—and every one of us can be part of the solution.

24-hour crisis hotline: 618-235-0892

Our confidential hotline is staffed 24/7 with trained advocates ready to listen, offer support, create a safety plan that works for you, and provide referrals.