October is national domestic violence awareness month. Purple ribbons are worn in solidarity with survivors and to bring awareness to this social issue and to help bring domestic violence out of the darkness and into the light.

Other ways in which those who want to support awareness include dedicating a lantern in honor or memory of a victim of domestic violence, decorating a window at their home, office, school or church with purple paint or even through conversation to life and explore different ways to affect the culture and cycle of violence in our country.

To honor the specific week without violence, on Oct. 14 at 6pm in Clyde O’Bracken/ Sertoma Park Topeka’s first Shine A Light event will be held at the corner of 12th and Jackson. This event will bring light to this social issue through a lighted path of lanterns decorated prior to the event by survivors and supporters as well as people who wish to dedicate a lantern at the event, a speech given by the local sheriff and local musicians. Supporters can bring their lawn chairs, grab a slice of pizza and listen to the musicians and speakers. Everyone who can make it is invited to attend.