That distinctive purple glow you'll be seeing this month is a declaration that domestic violence has no place in Chilliwack.
The annual Purple Light Nights 2016 campaign kicks off Monday, Oct. 3 at the Chilliwack RCMP community policing office on Airport Road with a tree lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m.
“Domestic violence is a crime that often goes unreported," said Cpl. Mike Rail.
"RCMP urges anyone who has knowledge of or suspects someone of being a victim of domestic violence, to report this crime to the police."
One in four families is impacted by intimate or partner violence. It can range from physical, emotional, sexual, and verbal abuse, all based on control by a partner or ex-partner.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, and PLN asks communities to "light up the night with a purple light" to send a message about prevention.
The Purple Light Nights campaign started in King County, Washington in 2007. In Chilliwack, the successful community-supported and sponsored effort honours both victims of this type of violence and survivors. From October 1 to 31, Chilliwack residents and businesses alike are encouraged to string purple lights, or wear a wrist bandin support.
“Our goal is to increase awareness of domestic violence and the effect it has on children, families, and our community. Through the Purple Light Nights campaign we provide education to promote healthy relationships to youths and adults,” said Darlene Wahlstrom, Victim Services coordinator for Chilliwack RCMP.
Purple lights and wrist bands are by donation at: Ann's Treasures and Gifts, ADTS offices, Bella clothing, Chilliwack Community Services, Chilliwack Community Policing, Decades, Nuggets Used Books, Fortin's, Harvest, Hofstede's, Ken's Tire and Wheel, Garrison Wine, Mary’s on Wellington, ADTS offices on Young Rd, RCMP Chilliwack, Save-On Foods, The Book Man, Unika, Van City, and Yale Road Pharmacy.
More info by contacting Beverly Coles, Chilliwack Community Services Specialized Victim Services, 604 -792-4267 or visit www.purplelightnights.org.