October was first declared as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) by Congress in 1989. Since then, October has been a time to acknowledge domestic violence survivors and be a voice for its victims. Organizations and individuals unite across the country for a national effort to uplift the needs, voices, and experiences of survivors.
Domestic violence is prevalent in every community, and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. Physical violence is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior as part of a much larger, systematic pattern of dominance and control. Domestic violence can result in physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death. The devastating consequences of domestic violence can cross generations and last a lifetime.
Although there has been substantial progress in reducing domestic violence, an average of 20 people are physically abused by intimate partners every minute. This equates to more than 10 million abuse victims annually. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been physically abused by an intimate partner, and 1 in 5 women and 1 in 7 men have been severely physically abused by an intimate partner. Millions of Americans live in daily, silent fear within their own homes.
In addition, every year millions of children are exposed to domestic violence. Domestic violence incidents affect every person within a home and can have long-lasting negative effects on children’s emotional well-being, and social and academic functioning.
For DVAM 2025, the Domestic Violence Awareness Project is proud to introduce the theme With Survivors, Always. This theme allows us to explore what it means to be in partnership with survivors toward safety, support, and solidarity. It is both a love letter and a call to action for those committed to advocating for survivors’ needs and rights. Survivors deserve safety. Survivors deserve support. Survivors deserve solidarity. For DVAM 2025 and beyond, we commit to showing up for survivors, always.
The Domestic Violence Hotline is Here for You. “We are here to serve all those impacted by relationship abuse 24/7 confidentially. If you are unable to wait safely or aren’t ready to call, chat or text — you can search our Directory of Local Providers section anytime for resources and support in your area.”
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