OCTOBER
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Every October, we work hard to raise awareness within our community, educate about domestic violence, and to show support and solidarity with survivors. Learn more about what this month is all about and our efforts to observe it below.
Purple River Lights in Phoenix Park
Join us as we light the bridge in Phoenix Park purple (the official color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month). We are once again looking for sponsors to help us raise awareness and show solidarity with survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence. For $100, you or your business can be the sponsor for one night of Purple River Lights.
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Please fill out the sponsorship form to reserve a night!
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Day of Unity
Dedication Ceremony
October 6th, 2023 at 6 P.M.
Every year, too many lives are lost to domestic violence. In 2022, 82 people were victims of domestic violence homicide. This year, we are honoring those who've passed by reading their name and releasing biodegradable balloons in their honor. We would be honored if you would join us on October 6th at 6p.m. at the Labyrinth in Phoenix Park, Eau Claire, where we will gather, speak, and reflect on the impact of this loss together.
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If you would like to be a part of this ceremony, we are looking for volunteers to read names and release balloons. Please contact us at admin@boltonrefuge.org with questions or to sign up.
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After our dedication ceremony, we will be moving our memorial display to our Farwell facility, where it will remain for the rest of the month, and we invite you to stop by and reflect if you can.
Day of Unity - History
On October 6th, 1982, Officer Robert Bolton responded to a domestic violence call at our shelter (then called the Refuge House). Upon arriving on the scene, Officer Robert Bolton, only 26 years old, was shot and killed by the abuser. We are now named "Bolton Refuge House" in his honor.
This year marks the 41st anniversary of Officer Bolton's passing. We honor his sacrifice every year on this anniversary by hosting the Day of Unity. Over the years, this event has evolved to include efforts to preserve Bolton Refuge House's history and to acknowledge and memorialize the other lives lost to domestic violence homicide.
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The two videos below were created in 2020 and 2021 to preserve our history, as well as the progress of the anti-domestic violence movement, through historical context and first-hand accounts.
Phase one: History and Context
Phase Two: Firsthand Accounts
Purple Porch Project
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Every October, we encourage local community members and businesses to decorate their front porches and lawns in purple, the color of Domestic Violence Awareness!
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We are so excited to see your creativity! If you would like a lawn sign or garage poster to add to your display, please reach out to us at 715-834-0628 or stop by our Eau Claire office. Thank you!