Persons advocating against domestic violence are being urged to put action to their words.

Gender Affairs Coordinator, Ms. Tara-Sue Morgan said, “In 2017, there was a sharp decrease in domestic violence reporting with only 150 cases versus in 2016 where there were 237 cases reported.”

Ms. Morgan explained that it does not mean that the situations are not occurring but persons may still not be coming forward especially since the Territory’s vulnerable state from the 2017 disasters.

The Coordinator said engaging with community partners including the Family Support Network and the Cancer Society will heighten the awareness of healthy relationships throughout the Territory.

Ms. Morgan stated that the Office of Gender Affairs will continue to educate the public about healthy relationships and work with agencies responsible for reporting or handling domestic violence cases.

Domestic violence awareness sessions will be held in secondary schools throughout the month. Additionally, Information Fairs are scheduled on October 12 at the National Bank Virgin Islands and on October 19 at Scotia Bank of the Virgin Islands in a joint venture with the BVI Cancer Society.

The Office of Gender Affairs will collaborate with the Family Support Network for a Family Fun Day on October 27 at the Queen Elizabeth 11 Park. The month will conclude with a ‘Paint the Town Purple’ event on October 31 and the public is invited wear purple as a symbol of unity and support.

This year’s activities will be observed under the theme, “Domestic Violence Awareness+ Action = Life Change".

For more information on the Domestic Violence Awareness Activities, or to schedule a sensitization session for businesses or organisations, persons are asked to telephone the Office of Gender Affairs at 852- 7783 or visit their Facebook page @officeofgenderaffairsVI.