From THE COCOON
In 1981, a “Day of Unity” was held in October to connect advocates for survivors of violence, and six years later, was expanded into Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), recognized nationally. The Cocoon invites the community to bear witness to and support survivors of domestic violence by participating in events during DVAM and learning how to be part of the movement to stop violence before it starts.
Community members are encouraged to look for purple ribbons along Main Street in downtown Bowling Green, which symbolize peace, courage, and dedication to ending violence. The ribbons also bear a QR code, which directs the public to The Cocoon’s website and a phone number to access 24/7 services. Posters will also be distributed to businesses and organizations around the county, highlighting facts about domestic, teen, and workplace violence to help promote awareness.
The Cocoon has partnered with Bowling Green State University, Bethany House, and the Toledo Library’s Steinem Sisters Collection to host and promote a series of free events throughout the month of October. Attendees are encouraged to be aware that all events center around, and share the stories of those who have experienced domestic and sexual violence.
Free community events:
- The Wood County Clothesline Project: Wednesday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., The Oval, Bowling Green State University, rain date set for Oct. 2
- A display of T-shirts created by survivors of violence, or in honor of someone who directly experienced violence.
- Silent Witness Project: Tuesday, Oct. 7, 6 – 8 p.m., Toledo Public Library, 325 Michigan St., Toledo
- This event honors lives lost to violence through readings and conversations.
- What Were You Wearing: Monday, Oct. 13, 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m., BGSU Student Union, second floor
- The purpose of this exhibit is to dispel a victim-blaming myth that clothing invites a sexual assault and features a display of the types of outfits worn by Wood County survivors at the time of their assaults.
- Wear Purple Day: Thursday, Oct. 23
- The community is invited to wear purple to show solidarity with survivors and share photos on The Cocoon’s “Wear Purple Day” social media posts to help spread awareness.
For more information on The Cocoon’s work to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence and upcoming events, visit www.thecocoon.org, or follow on Facebook, @cocoonwoodcounty, or Instagram, @thecocoon_woodco.
