Puyallup Turns Purple For Domestic Violence Awareness Month

PUYALLUP, WA — You might notice a little extra color the next time you venture to downtown Puyallup: all month, the city will be decked out in purple in recognition of domestic violence month.

That means new, purple lights and banners on downtown streetlamps.

But the color isn't as important as the message: which is about raising awareness over a serious, sometimes deadly issue. While Puyallup recognized October as Domestic Violence Month before the pandemic, organizers say that COVID-19 has only exacerbated domestic violence: where once people could use time at work to escape violent situations, now many more people are stuck at home with their abusers. Meanwhile, shelters for victims escaping abuse may have less space than normal because of COVID safety protocols.

All together, the city says that means this year domestic violence awareness is more important than ever.

The city's website offers tips for recognizing domestic violence, and if you're in a tight spot, they urge you to contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE), where help is available 24/7.