What ‘Go Purple with Prevail’ is all about

By TAMI WANNINGER
Guest Columnist

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to recognize the devastating impact domestic violence has on individuals, families, and communities. It is time to remind ourselves that this is not someone else’s problem, we are impacted right here in Hamilton County.

In Indiana, more than 42 percent of women experience physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime, while funding in Indiana has declined by $6 million this year. Those numbers only tell part of the story. Last year, we served over 3,268 unique individuals at Prevail. We see every day how domestic violence can affect a person’s safety, housing, financial stability, children, work, and sense of self.

These are difficult numbers to read. But behind every statistic is a person, your neighbor, a coworker, a friend, a family member, a parent, or perhaps someone we know and care about deeply. That is why community awareness matters so much.

Domestic violence often thrives in silence and isolation. Awareness helps us recognize the signs and helps us understand that a survivor may not be ready or able to simply “leave.” It reminds us to listen without judgment, to believe survivors, and to know where to turn when someone needs help. Sometimes, a safe conversation with a trusted person can be the first step toward getting connected to support.

Every one of us has a role to play in creating a community where domestic violence is recognized, taken seriously, and met with support rather than silence. We can learn more. We can challenge the myths and attitudes that allow abuse to continue. Most importantly, we can be the person who responds with compassion when someone we know reaches out.

This October, I invite our community to Go Purple with Prevail. Wear purple. Turn your business, organization, or home purple. Share information. Start a conversation. Let survivors know they are seen and that our community cares. Together, let’s build a safer and strong community for Hamilton County Residents.

Tami Wanninger is the Executive Director of Prevail, Inc. You can learn more at prevailinc.org.