Purple Light Nights: Bringing Awareness to Intimate Partner Violence

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We often think of October as the month that hosts Thanksgiving and Halloween. It is that time of year when the leaves change colour, the nights get cooler, and the days get shorter. You may not know that October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  

Intimate Partner Violence, also called Domestic Violence, is a serious topic and we want to help support the victims of intimate partner violence and family abuse. This year Menno Place is participating in the Purple Light Nights Campaign. If you’ve been on campus in the evening this month you may have noticed the decorative lights on all of our buildings have been purple. This is a symbol that demonstrates we do not tolerate any form of domestic abuse. Women, men, and children can suffer from domestic abuse. We shine a purple light to ensure people have a safe place to go if they need help, and to show our community that we will never forget those who have suffered or even lost their lives at the hands of violent partners.

If you are a victim of intimate partner/domestic abuse, we encourage you to seek help. There are supports available to you through these channels:

  • Those in immediate danger should call 9-1-1
  • Those seeking help in the form of therapy, strategies, and safety, can call the Employee Family Assistance Program at 1-800-667-0993 or visit Mennoplacestaff.com/mentalhealth
  • Women seeking shelter can contact the Ann Davis Transition Society (Chilliwack) at 604-792-2760 or SARA for Women (Abbotsford) at 604-852-6008 (24-hour access)
  • Those who are seeking Mennonite support can call 604-850-6639 or toll free at 1-888-622-6337
  • Gentlemen who wish to improve their relationships and be part of a Men’s Support Group may wish to explore the MCC Home Improvement Program by emailing endabuse@mccbc.ca or call 604-850-6639

Please remember that you can also speak to one of our own Chaplains who can provide spiritual support.

There is no place for intimate partner/domestic abuse in our communities. Please be kind to those around you as you don’t know what others are experiencing. If someone confides you and tells you that they are being abused, please encourage them to get help, listen without judgment, and build their confidence.

Please come see the People & Culture department for additional information.