Photos for Headline Surfer illustrate the Sanford Police Department's domestic violence campaign in Central Florida for the month of October, with officers wearing a purple ribbon/butterfly pin on their uniforms in an effort to raise awareness about the issue.
By HENRY FREDERICK / Headline Surfer
SANFORD, Fla. -- Members of the Sanford Police Department are raising awareness about domestic violence through a multifaceted campaign in October.
As part of the Domestic Violence Awareness Campaign, Sanford cops will wear a purple ribbon/butterfly pin on their uniform in an effort to spread awareness and support of victims of domestic violence.
"The goal is to have citizens ask the officers about the meaning of the butterfly on their uniform, in hopes that it will provoke a meaningful conversation about the impacts of domestic violence," Sanford PD said in a press release to Headline Surfer and other local media outlets about the new campaign.
"In addition, participating officers and support staff will walk 31 miles throughout October, spreading the message that 'running hurts, love shouldn’t.'"
Fast Facts on Domestic Violence Awareness Month
• In October 1987, Domestic Violence Awareness Month was officially observed in the United States. On average, 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million victims of domestic violence, including women, men, and children.
Sadly, the majority of these cases go unreported. The month of recognition was introduced to not only educate and raise awareness, but to bring the support and strength that domestic violence victims desperately need. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
• Domestic violence shows itself in a number of different forms, whether it’s punching, slapping, choking, threatening, manipulating, yelling, or emotional abuse. No matter the situation, domestic violence is never okay.
Final Run along the Lake Monroe RiverWalk on Friday, Oct. 31
The Sanford Police Department invites local media partners and community members who wish to show support by running, walking, or cheering on participants to join them for their Final Run along the Lake Monroe RiverWalk.
Attendees are encouraged to wear as much purple as possible. The Final Run will take place on Friday, Oct. 31, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The gathering point will be the Public Parking Lot located at 921 W. Seminole Blvd, Sanford.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Domestic violence is never okay, no matter the circumstances. If you, or someone you know, is in desperate need of help, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 or TTY 1−800−787−3224.
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