KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) - October is the month to wear purple to remember the victims and honor the survivors of domestic violence, which is still a significant incident in the violent crimes statistics both nationwide and here in Tennessee.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) found that 40 percent of Tennessee women and 32.5 percent of Tennessee men experience intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner rape and/or intimate partner stalking in their lifetimes. In fact, intimate partner violence accounts for 15 percent of all violent crime.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigations found that women were three times more likely to be victimized than males, accounting for 71.5 percent of all domestic violence victims. Domestic violence resulted in 81 murder victims in 2017.
Although domestic violence, or dv, occurs year-round, groups and coalitions make the month of October the focal time to raise awareness and educate people on the signs and resources for help. There are events all month for local aid organizations in the greater Knoxville area.
http://www.havenhousetn.org/
Haven House domestic violence services assists in dv crisis, shelter and resources for victims and survivors… has some comprehensive “warning signs” on their website as well as a crisis hotline 865-982-1087.
Upcoming events - Love Shouldn’t Hurt awareness event at The Vienna Coffeehouse in Maryville, Oct. 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. There will be refreshments, hor d’oeuvres, wine, art and speakers.
https://fjcknoxville.com/
Knoxville Family Justice Center serves victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and has a support center that provides collocated services for victims and their children such as prosecutors, detectives, clergy and social service professionals.
24/7 Family violence helpline 865-521-6336.
Upcoming event - Bullmans Fit/Kick class on Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. “Get in shape. Go home safe.” Bullman’s Kickboxing & Krav Maga at 4511 Kingston Pike.
http://salvationarmytennessee.org/knoxville/what-we-do/the-joy-d-baker-center/
Emergency shelter. Has legal and financial assistance services; counseling services, housing, support and children’s services.
https://www.ywcaknox.com/domestic-violence-awareness-month-3/
Some upcoming events -
Party with a Purpose: A special evening of entertainment, food and activities aimed to raise awareness. Friday, Oct. 5 at YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center, 124 S. Cruze Street, admission is free.
Pledge Purple Week: YWCA teams up with area schools and after-school programs to promote “Purple Pledge Week” Oct. 15-19 that educates and encourages youth about domestic violence and the effects; Contact the YWCA if other local organizations are interested in “pledging purple”
Call the hotline(s). There are resources and services to exit the situation safely.