October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a national campaign to promote awareness of the signs of relationship abuse, increase knowledge of available resources, support survivors, and prevent violence in our communities. This year the theme of Domestic Violence Awareness Month is "With Survivors, Always." Survivors deserve safety. Survivors deserve support. Survivors deserve solidarity. This October we ask all members of the university community to take a stand against domestic and dating violence.

Domestic and dating violence are types of relationship abuse. Perpetrators attempt to gain power and control in their relationships through violence and coercion. 57% of college students who report experiencing dating violence and abuse said it occurred in college. Domestic abuse of any kind has no place at the University of Arizona. All Wildcats deserve respect and to feel safe and secure in their relationships.

Domestic violence is a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed against a family or household member and includes violence against persons a perpetrator has dated or whose relationship has been romantic or intimate in nature. Domestic violence and dating violence are crimes and are violations of university policy. Survivors of domestic and dating violence may experience fear, the disruption of daily life including negative academic and workplace impacts, and emotional, psychological, and physical harm. Perpetrators may face criminal charges, disciplinary hearings, removal from organizations and activities, and separation from the university.

Survivors of domestic violence and dating violence are not alone. There are national, local and university resources and support available. If you or someone you know needs help, you can find information at the university's Victim's Rights and Resources webpage, and the Office of Institutional Equity employee support webpage, and student support webpage.