Each October, communities across the nation come together to observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a powerful reminder of the work needed to combat an issue that affects far too many. Originally launched in 1981 as a national “Day of Unity,” DVAM has since evolved into a month-long effort to raise awareness, uplift survivors, and advocate for meaningful change.

The statistics are sobering. According to Fearless!, one in four women will be a victim of domestic violence at some point in her lifetime. On average, three women are killed every day by a current or former intimate partner. Locally, since September 2004, 36 women have been murdered in Orange County alone, with many others enduring the trauma of abuse in silence. These numbers remind us that domestic violence is not a distant problem—it affects every community, cutting across socioeconomic, racial, and geographic lines.

But Domestic Violence Awareness Month is not just about numbers; it’s about people. Survivor stories are at the heart of this movement, and throughout October, organizations like Fearless! work tirelessly to amplify those voices. As Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier, Executive Director of Fearless!, reminds us, “By working together, we can create meaningful change, ensuring that survivors are heard, supported, and empowered.”

Fearless! has been a beacon of hope for survivors in the Hudson Valley. In 2023 alone, they answered nearly 12,000 hotline calls and provided emergency shelter for 59 adults and 63 children. Their advocates helped survivors navigate complex systems—from courtrooms to housing agencies—offering crucial support that ranges from safety planning to legal services. The organization’s free counseling, advocacy, and support groups are lifelines for victims of domestic violence, teen dating violence, and human trafficking.

This October, let’s reflect on the courage of survivors and the responsibility we all share to end the cycle of abuse. Domestic violence doesn’t just affect its immediate victims—it ripples through families, communities, and society as a whole. By raising awareness and pushing for systemic change, we can help break the silence and build a future where safety, respect, and dignity are guaranteed for all.

If you or someone you know is in need of help, reach out to Fearless!’s 24-hour hotline at 845-562-5340. No one should have to face abuse alone.