All of October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but on Purple Thursday this Oct. 24, the UToledo campus community is encouraged to come together and wear purple in support of those impacted by domestic violence and to send the message that we do not tolerate domestic violence within our community.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, as of 2021, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men will experience sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner. Domestic violence is an issue that affects people everywhere, including our very own Toledo community.
“Domestic violence isn’t always physical harm. It is also continual patterns of verbal, emotional and financial abuse,” said Grace Clark, Title IX Student Ambassador. “Domestic Violence is not stereotypical, as society may have you believe. It is far more complex and likely and it can affect anyone.”
At The University of Toledo, the Title IX Office is committed to increasing awareness of domestic violence. The Title IX Office will be handing out bowls of purple ribbons to participating offices around campus as well as in Thompson Student Union from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for anyone in the community to take.
There are many ways the UToledo community can participate in Purple Thursday.
“Whether it be a purple clothing item or a purple ribbon attached to your clothing or bag, we invite the community to join us on October 24 and wear purple,” said Michelle McDevitt, assistant director of Title IX and Compliance and deputy Title IX coordinator. By wearing purple on this day and throughout October, the UToledo community can show support for those impacted by domestic violence.”
“Not only do the purple ribbons increase support and awareness for domestic violence, but they also encourage others to get involved,” added Rachel Kellett, Title IX graduate assistant. “We want students, faculty and staff to feel inspired to wear the color purple.”
In addition to demonstrating support for those individuals impacted by domestic violence, the purple ribbons throughout the campus convey a powerful message that there is never a place for domestic violence in homes, workplaces, schools or neighborhoods for any person.
UToledo’s Title IX Office ensures compliance with federal law. The Title IX Office may investigate reports of sexual misconduct, implement supportive measures when necessary and work to remedy the effects of sexual misconduct.
For more information about Title IX, the sexual misconduct prevention education program, where to report an incident related to Title IX, or additional resources, call 419.530.4191, stop by the office in Snyder Memorial Building Room 1120 or visit the UToledo Title IX website.
