SPOKANE, Wash. – On Wednesday, October 1, the Spokane community will gather for a community vigil to honor lives lost to domestic violence and celebrate the strength of survivors, YWCA Spokane announced.
The vigil will mark the start of Domestic Violence Action Month (DVAM) in Spokane, a month focused on awareness, education and action.
The event will take place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Snxw Meneɂ Amphitheater in Riverfront Spokane. The vigil is free and open to the public, with guests encouraged to wear purple in solidarity.
After the vigil, attendees can explore a new StoryWalk exhibit featuring survivor poetry and local artwork to spark conversations about healthy and unhealthy relationships.
Mayor Lisa Brown, Jeanette Hauck, CEO of YWCA Spokane and representatives from local organizations will speak at the event.
These organizations include Kalispel Tribe Victim Assistance Services, Lutheran Community Services Northwest, Mujeres in Action Spokane, Spokane Regional Domestic Violence Coalition, Stop the Silence Spokane and Yoyot Sp’q’n’i.
Jeanette Hauck emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing domestic violence.
“Domestic violence is not a private issue; it’s a community issue that requires a collective response,” said Hauck. “Spokane’s rates remain among the highest in Washington. This vigil reminds us that survivors are not alone, and together, we can create a safer future for everyone,” said Hauck.
According to the Spokane Regional Health District, one in three women and one in 10 men in Spokane County will experience domestic violence.
YWCA Spokane’s 24-hour helpline is on track to receive nearly 6,000 calls this year, an increase of 2,000 from last year.
