Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence raising awareness this month

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and one in-state nonprofit organization is going above and beyond to spread the word.

The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV) has partnered with the national #Every1KnowsSome1 campaign to bring awareness to the issue of domestic violence and persuade people to come together and safely discuss the topic.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has officially recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) within the state.

“The reality is that everyone does know someone that has experienced domestic violence – their mother, brother, sister, friend, neighbor, coworker,” said Sarah Conlon, Interim President/CEO of ICADV. “Increased education about domestic violence can help communities build stronger networks of support for survivors, their children and those who cause harm.”

According to ICADV, one in three women, one in four men, and nearly half of LGBTQ+ people will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.

In different events spread throughout October, ICADV encourages community members to partake in discussions about domestic violence and explains how to be there for victims. For more information on these activities, visit nnedv.org .

In this campaign, ICADV is joining the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) who has hosted a national Week of Action every year from 2014-2022 during DVAM.

“Through these events and activities, ICADV aims to unite our communities, encourage open conversations, and create a supportive environment where survivors can find hope and healing,” Conlon said.

Having more than 50 member organizations providing service to families in the state, ICADV is working to put a complete stop to domestic violence in Illinois.

If you or someone you know is a survivor of domestic violence, visit www.ilcadv.org/get-help or call the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline at 877-863-6338.

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