Lancaster, PA (October 1, 2021) — Each year, in October, advocates, survivors and supporters recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).

This October, Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office is partnering with the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) and other state and territorial coalitions across the nation to start a coordinated national conversation about domestic violence and how we can all contribute to changing the narrative on this overshadowed, but fundamental topic. 

More prevalent than most realize, one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. Anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity or orientation, or socio-economic status, can become a victim of domestic violence. This year’s campaign theme, #Every1KnowsSome1, strives to highlight how common domestic violence is and that it is more than physical violence.

So far this year, the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office Special Victims Unit has prosecuted 492 domestic violence cases and 161 violations of Protection From Abuse (PFA) orders.

Throughout October, Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office and NNEDV will be sharing content on their social media channels to help raise awareness and educate the public on the complex dynamics of domestic violence. A week of action is planned for October 18 – 24, 2021 designed to engage advocates, partners, and the public in starting a national conversation.

Free and confidential help is available 24/7 for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Those seeking help may contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at thehotline.org or 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or the Lancaster County Domestic Violence Services Hotline 717.299.1249.