On Wednesday, Sept. 30, 175 purple lights will shine from the windows of West Virginia University’s Boreman residential hall to honor those who have been affected by domestic violence.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to remember those who have died because of domestic violence, to honor those who have survived and to recognize those who work to end domestic violence.

The West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence, WELL WVU and Rape and Domestic Violence Information Center will help launch a statewide “Light in the Window” campaign in which communities around the state are invited to display purple-lit candles in their windows as a show of support for victims of domestic violence.

The public display of purple light, a symbol of remembrance and hope for domestic violence victims, conveys a powerful public message of dedication to ending further violence in West Virginia.

“The sight of the purple-lit candles lets victims know they are supported, that abuse is not tolerated and that we have a commitment to working together to create safer homes and communities. This is a simple and meaningful way for us all to be a part of ending domestic violence,” said Deb Beazley, sexual assault prevention educator for WELL WVU.

The campaign will host a kick-off event on the Mountainlair Plaza at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30. There will be a number of speakers and information. The public can also show their support by purchasing electric purple candles at the event for $5 each or by contacting the Rape and Domestic Violence Information Center, Inc., which serves Monongalia, Preston, and Taylor Counties, at 304-292-5100.

The center provides services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and incest. Services include temporary emergency shelter, a 24-hour crisis hotline, personal and legal advocacy, referrals, support groups and community education.

All services are free and confidential. The center is one of 14 domestic violence programs that are members of the West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

For more information on domestic violence and sexual assault prevention, visit http://well.wvu.edu.

-WVU-

CONTACT: Deb Beazley, WELL WVU
304-293-1377, dbeazley@hsc.wvu.edu