Residents of the British Virgin Islands are encouraged to wear purple clothing and masks on October 28 in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Gender Affairs Coordinator, Ms. Tara Sue Morgan explained that this year’s theme ‘Do One Thing’, encourages the public to do one thing, whether it is by listening to survivor stories, reading articles on how to help and tell signs of abuse or by creating a healthy safe space, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ms. Morgan added that the office continues to provide support to partners and agencies and this month’s theme of ‘Do One Thing’ will propel the mandate.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an international observance aimed at creating community awareness of the social and personal impacts of domestic and family violence. Ms. Morgan said the Office of Gender Affairs is working towards this goal and will be hosting activities that will focus on educating the public about the Domestic Violence Act, 2011 and the Domestic Violence Protocol.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide a caring and integrated system of health and social services that facilitates human development and quality of life in the British Virgin Islands.