Memphis, TN -United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz joins the Department of Justice, the Office on
Violence Against Women (OVW), advocates, survivors, victim service providers, justice
professionals, police and first responders, and communities across the
U.S. in observing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).
Domestic violence is more prevalent than many realize. The devastating consequences of domestic
violence can cross generations and last a lifetime. Approximately one in four women and one in
seven men will experience severe domestic violence in their lifetimes; however, rates are
disproportionately higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, women of Color,
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and two-spirit people, and people with
disabilities. DVAM provides an opportunity to spread awareness about domestic violence and
encourage everyone to play a role in ending gender-based violence.
“Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an opportunity for our Office to remind the communitythat we
are here and available to support victims and survivors of the Western District," said United
States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz.
Purple Thursday is a National Day of Action during DVAM. It is an opportunity to raise awareness
about domestic violence and an easy way for us to show our commitment to promoting safe
communities. Please join us on October 20 by wearing purple and starting a conversation about
domestic violence!
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
