October is recognized as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the First Day of Unity observed in October 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV). The intent was to connect battered women’s advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children.
The Day of Unity soon became a special week when a wide range of activities was conducted at the local, state, and national levels. Although these activities were varied and diverse as the program sponsors, they all shared these common themes:
- Mourning those who died as a result of domestic violence
- Celebrating those who have survived domestic violence
- Connecting those who work to end domestic violence.