Liberty offers events, resources for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Throughout October, Liberty University is observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase awareness, encourage meaningful conversations, and support those impacted by domestic violence. The month provides an opening for survivors, allies, and institutions to speak, listen, and act.

October was first designated as Domestic Violence Awareness Month by Congress in 1989 to raise awareness, educate, support survivors, and remember those whose lives have been lost to intimate partner abuse.

Staff from Liberty’s Ethics & Compliance Office of Education have been providing information and resources to students, faculty, and staff at a table in the Montview Student Union. They have also been handing out purple ribbons, the national color for domestic violence awareness. The next tabling events will be on Oct. 21 and 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Emma Moulder, the director of Equal Rights & Title IX and the senior deputy Title IX coordinator, said raising awareness of domestic violence is crucial to helping survivors receive the support they need.

“Domestic violence can be incredibly isolating for victims and for the family members of victims,” Moulder said. “For Liberty to be involved in this conversation is very important because it tells survivors that they’re not alone, that there are people out there who want to help them, and that there is support both socially and spiritually.”

“The nice thing about having the dedicated awareness month is that it’s a national conversation,” she added. “It really brings everyone’s attention to a very important issue that doesn’t get this much attention on a daily basis in the other 11 months of the year.”

Oct. 15 is Purple Thursday, the nationally observed day of awareness and support for survivors of domestic violence. The Liberty community is encouraged to wear purple in support of survivors and to help raise awareness of domestic and dating violence. That evening, the Freedom Tower will be illuminated in purple.

While October brings special attention to domestic violence awareness, Liberty University’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive community continues throughout the year. The Office of Equal Rights & Title IXserves as a neutral reporting function, receiving reports and helping individuals access support and resources. (Read more about university-wide efforts that are building a culture of safety and security at Liberty.)

Domestic violence is often a silent issue, hidden behind closed doors, yet it remains a persistent reality affecting many individuals, families, and communities every day. The following are ways to stay informed, offer meaningful support to those in need, and help raise awareness about domestic violence:

• Listen without judgment and provide compassionate support to those experiencing abuse.
• Learn to recognize the warning signs and risk factors associated with abusive relationships.
• Support local victim services through donations, volunteering, or community partnerships.
• Advocate for positive change by voting, engaging with policymakers, and supporting efforts that protect survivors.
• Promote prevention by modeling healthy communication, mutual respect, and appropriate boundaries in your own relationships.
• Reach out to friends, family members, and neighbors, and check in when someone may need support.

>>The Ethics & Compliance Office of Equal Rights & Title IX is located in DeMoss Hall 1232, an area of main campus that is readily accessible to students. To contact the office, email ert@liberty.edu or call (434) 592-4999.

>>If you or someone you know is experiencing dating or domestic violence, please submit a report to the Office of Equal Rights & Title IX.