The Abbotsford Police Department (APD) has joined forces with several local agencies for a campaign against domestic violence.
The Purple Light Nights initiative encourages residents and businesses to shine purple lights outside their home throughout October as a sign of unity and support against domestic violence.
The campaign originated in Covington, Wash., in 2007 and has become an international educational and awareness campaign.
Purple is the international colour used to symbolize domestic violence awareness.
The Abbotsford/Mission Violence Against Women in Relationships (VAWIR) committee adopted the Purple Lights Campaign four years ago.
The campaign continues to grow locally, with the ongoing support of the VAWIR, the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), the Women’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley, the Abbotsford Downtown Business Association, and other local businesses in Abbotsford and Mission.
“Collectively, we promote the message that domestic violence has no place in our community,” said APD Const. Ian MacDonald.
The APD’s domestic violence unit works in close partnership with the Abbotsford Community Service’s specialized victim assistance program, MCFD, and BC Corrections and Crown counsel.
MacDonald said the objectives of the Purple Light Nights campaign are to: remember victims who have lost their lives as a result of domestic violence, support survivors of domestic violence, and give hope to those still living with abuse.
Purple lights can be purchased at Home Hardware at 33050 South Fraser Way or by contacting the APD at 604-859-5225 and asking for the domestic violence unit.