By: Arezoo Shahbazi Roa, Sr. Prevention & Strategic Partnerships Director
Every October, we shine the light. Not just as a symbol, but as a call to action. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time when the world is more willing to listen, more open to learning, and more ready to stand with survivors. For those of us who do this work every day, this month presents a unique opportunity to bring others in and engage people who may not think about relationship violence year-round, but who care deeply once they understand its impact.
Shining the light is how we show up. It’s how we honor the lives lost, the stories of survival, and the ongoing journey of healing. It’s how we say to every survivor: you are not alone. It’s how we remind our communities that relationship violence is not a private issue, it’s a public one, and it requires a united response. When a community comes together, when neighbors, schools, businesses, and community leaders stand side by side, we send a powerful message. We say that silence is no longer an option. We say that healing is possible. We say that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and free.
Serena once believed she had to suffer in silence. As a successful professional and mother, she felt the pressure to keep up appearances. But behind closed doors, she endured years of emotional and psychological abuse. It wasn’t until she started reading survivor stories that she realized she wasn’t alone. That moment of connection gave her the courage to seek help, to heal, and eventually to share her own story. Her story is a reminder that when we shine the light, we create space for others to step into their own power.
October is not the only time we shine the light, but it is the time we shine it brighter. It’s when we invite others to join us, to learn, to speak out, and to take action. It’s when we create space for stories to be heard and for change to begin. This month, we invite you to walk with us. Join our community walking vigils as we carry stories of loss, resilience, and hope. Together we shine the light as a community. To learn more about our Shine The Light campaign visit humanoptions.org/DVAM2025.
At Human Options, we offer a 24/7 hotline where victims and survivors can speak with an empathetic, caring advocate who can help navigate available resources and validate their experience. For more information, call our hotline at 877-854-3594 or visit humanoptions.org.
