Staff Wear Purple To Support Domestic Violence Survivors for ‘Purple Thursday’

In recognition of Domestic Violence Month, Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) staff from throughout the state showed up to support domestic violence survivors on Purple Thursday, October 19. 

Employees wore purple, distributed purple ribbons and stickers, and painted supportive messages on rocks for survivors. Staff members will set out the rocks in their communities, with the hope that survivors and secondary survivors will see them and know that they’re not alone. 

“Wearing purple is a simple way to celebrate the resiliency of survivors and honor the lives lost to abuse and violence,” said Samantha Weiss, DES Interpersonal Violence Program Specialist. “Additionally, it is an opportunity to raise public awareness about DV resources available in the community. These awareness days for domestic violence are really important because we want to show outwardly that we support survivors.”

Project Manager Deb Moore attended the event and will leave the rock she painted at the park where she walks her dogs every day.

"I just think that we have so much opportunity to bring awareness, not just for domestic violence, but for everything we do," said Deb. "There are benefits and things out there to help people, but so many people don't know about it.”

She hopes the rock she painted will help bring awareness whenever people see it.

However, supporting survivors isn’t limited to Purple Thursday, and there are many ways to show support outside of October, said Samantha.

“The best thing we can do is educate ourselves,” she said. She also emphasized survivors’ resilience. "Each survivor knows their situation best and has the autonomy and ability to make their own decisions. Survivors may need support in identifying and navigating resources. We can support survivors by providing a non-judgemental space for them to talk and learn more about the warning signs of abuse.”

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-7233. Messages can also be sent to the hotline by texting START to 88788. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. 

For information and resources for survivors of domestic violence, visit des.az.gov/domestic-violence.