SAVANNAH – The City of Savannah in partnership with SAFE Shelter Center for Domestic Violence will illuminate City Hall in purple beginning at sunset on Wednesday, Oct. 1 through Oct. 4 in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) was created to raise awareness about domestic violence, which is defined as a pattern of behavior where one person is being controlled by another through physical attacks, threats of violence, verbal or emotional abuse. October was federally recognized as DVAM in 1989 when Congress passed Public Law 101-112.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. According to SAFE Shelter, 35% of women and 39% of men experience a form of domestic violence in Georgia.
SAFE Shelter has been serving the Savannah area for over 45 years, providing comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence and their families as the only certified domestic violence shelter in the area. SAFE Shelter has been instrumental in ensuring safety, offering critical resources, and supporting thousands of survivors. Last year, the outreach and follow-up/aftercare program provided services to 1,457 victims.
The nonprofit will be holding a candlelight vigil in honor of victims of domestic violence on Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Forsyth Park Band Shell.
Residents and visitors are invited to talk selfies with City Hall, post using the hashtags #DVAM2025 and #WithSurvivors, and tag the City’s official social media channels.
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More Information
National Domestic Violence Hotline statistics
U.S. Congress Public Law 101-112 (1989)
SAFE Shelter 24-hour crisis line: 912-629-8888.
About City Hall Lighting Project
During the first phase City Hall Restoration Project this year, the building’s exterior lighting was upgraded with a permanent system that allows staff to illuminate the building in celebration of holidays and special events. City Hall will be illuminated with colors to celebrate and honor holidays based on a pre-determined annual calendar. Additionally, City Hall will be illuminated at the request of organizations or to raise public awareness of an impactful cause.
Media Availability
For media inquiries, please contact the Press Secretary. Information and Public Affairs Chief Joseph Shearouse is available for interviews.