The City of Chadron will consider a proclamation recognizing October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) during the City Council meeting on October 7, 2024. This year’s theme, Embrace Courage, calls on the Chadron community to stand up for survivors and take an active role in ending domestic violence. The proclamation, if passed, will show the city’s commitment to raising awareness and supporting those affected by domestic violence.
The DOVES Program is collaborating with local businesses and the Chadron State College to host a series of events throughout October to engage the community and support survivors. Highlights of this month-long initiative include:
- Heal, Hold, Center: Yoga for Domestic Violence Awareness at Chadron State College (CSC)
Date: TBD
This special yoga session will focus on healing and centering the body and mind, offering a safe space for reflection and support in recognition of DVAM 2024. - Wear Purple Day and DOVES Program Booth at CSC
Date: October 17, 2024
Chadron State College will host a Wear Purple Day in solidarity with survivors of domestic violence. The DOVES Program will have a booth on campus offering resources, information, and materials on how to help those affected. The day will also feature a video about domestic violence to spur conversation about how familial violence affects us all. - Take Back the Night Walk
Date: TBD
This powerful community event invites residents to walk together and take a stand against violence, support survivors, and raise awareness about domestic violence.
Local businesses in Chadron are also embracing courage by offering special promotions throughout the month. Participating businesses will feature themed drinks, treats, and promotions, helping to spark conversations around domestic violence and foster community engagement.
“The City Council’s consideration of this proclamation, along with the support from Chadron State College and local businesses, demonstrates our community’s dedication to making Chadron a safe, supportive place for survivors,” said Jody Motz, a Client Advocate and Community Educator with the DOVES Program. “By embracing courage, we can break the silence around domestic violence and empower survivors to seek help.”
Domestic violence is a far-reaching issue that affects over 12 million people annually in the United States. One in four women, one in seven men, and over half of transgender and nonbinary individuals will experience severe physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime. Additionally, children exposed to domestic violence are more likely to face behavioral and emotional challenges. These realities underscore the urgent need for our community to stand together and offer support and resources to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.
The DOVES Program invites the public to attend the Chadron City Council meeting on October 7, 2024, to show support for the proclamation. Community members are encouraged to participate in the various events, visit local businesses, and join in efforts to prevent domestic violence and support survivors.
For more information on Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Embrace Courage campaign, and the City Council meeting, please contact the DOVES Program at 1-866-95-DOVES or visit participating businesses and CSC events throughout October.