City of Alexandria Raises Awareness About Domestic Violence

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The City of Alexandria Domestic Violence Program (DVP) is reminding the community about how to recognize it and how to access help.
Page updated on March 18, 2022 at 7:44 AM
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City of Alexandria Raises Awareness About Domestic Violence

A DCHS CONNECT NEWS HIGHLIGHT   

October 14, 2021--October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The City of Alexandria Domestic Violence Program (DVP) is reminding the community about how to recognize it and how to access help.

Domestic violence is an instance or pattern of abusive or coercive behaviors that may include threats, harassment, controlling resources, verbal and emotional abuse, sexual abuse, physical assault, or other actions. These behaviors are exhibited by one individual to exert power or control over another in the context of a family, or in dating relationships, including those of teen couples and adult couples who do not live together.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women in the U.S. experience violence by a partner at some point in their life. To find out if you or someone you know might be a victim, a quick online assessment is available.

Outreach has been especially important during the pandemic because survivors are more isolated and closely monitored by their abusers. Survivors have also been less likely to seek help or leave their home due to concerns about COVID-19 or the belief that services may not be available.

While the DVP’s annual Candlelight Vigil commemorating Alexandrian domestic violence murder victims and the annual Clothesline Project will not be held this year due to COVID-19, DVP is working to raise awareness in a variety of ways. Outreach includes VDOT road signs with information for help on Duke Street near Landmark and on Route 1 near I-95, coffee sleeves at local coffee shops with the Domestic Violence hotline number, resource distribution to high school students, and the lighting of the Masonic Temple and the Alexandria Police Department in purple, the national color for domestic violence awareness.

The DVP’s 24/7 hotline can be reached at 703.746.4911. Among the services offered are a Safe House shelter; counseling; confidential support groups; and legal help, including court accompaniment and assistance with protective orders. All services continue to operate throughout the pandemic.

For more information and resources about domestic violence, visit alexandriava.gov/DomesticViolence.

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/124587.