Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) originated from the "Day of Unity" observed by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence in October 1981.

This event aimed to connect advocates nationwide working to end violence against women and children. By October 1987, the first DVAM was observed, and the first national domestic violence toll-free hotline was launched. In 1989, Congress officially designated October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, with activities focused on mourning those who have died due to domestic violence, celebrating survivors, and uniting allies to end relationship violence.

Domestic violence, also known as dating violence, relationship violence, and intimate partner violence, includes physical, emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse, as well as stalking.

It has significant health and economic impacts. Statistics reveal that about 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced some form of intimate partner violence. Additionally, more than half of transgender and non-binary individuals have encountered intimate partner violence. The LGBTQ+ community often faces higher rates of domestic violence and greater barriers to accessing support. U.S. crime reports indicate that approximately 1 in 5 homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner, with over half of female homicide victims in the U.S. killed by a current or former male partner.

Help is available for those experiencing relationship violence through campus, national, and local resources.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers anonymous, confidential support 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). Local organizations like VIBS and LI Against Domestic Violence provide assistance to residents of Long Island, while the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline is accessible at 1-800-942-6906. Those outside New York can find resources through the National Domestic Violence Hotline. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, individuals can get involved by attending trainings and workshops to recognize and respond to intimate partner violence and support survivors.