The symbolism of The Purple Ribbon

The symbol of the Domestic Violence Movement is the purple ribbon. The exact history of the purple ribbon is somewhat difficult to pinpoint. Over the years, a number of sources have been credited with originating the use of the purple ribbon as a unifying symbol of courage survival, honor and dedication to ending domestic violence. Across the country, families, and friends of victims have adopted the purple ribbon to remember and honor their loved ones who have lost their lives at the hands of a person they once loved and trusted. Shelters and local battered women’s programs use the purple ribbon to raise awareness about the crime of domestic violence in their communities. The purple ribbon also has been recognized by state legislatures in proclamations commemorating October as National Domestic Violence Month. In addition to the demonstration of support for victims and advocates, the display of purple ribbons throughout a community conveys a powerful message that there’s no place for domestic violence in the homes, neighborhoods, workplaces or schools of its citizens. (Adapted From National Resource Center’s DVAM Tips Tactics and Resources 2001).