Halifax, NS, November 6, 2024 – The Transition House Association of Nova Scotia (THANS) is illuminating communities across the province with its “Shine the Light on Domestic Violence” campaign, launched to mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Representing twelve violence-against-women organizations across Nova Scotia, THANS is dedicated to ending violence against women and children by providing critical support, including emergency shelter, counseling, safety planning, and outreach. Through this campaign, THANS invites Nova Scotians to stand in solidarity with survivors and raise awareness about domestic violence.
The campaign aims to show solidarity and support for those impacted by domestic violence by lighting up landmarks across the province in purple, a color symbolizing courage, resilience, and the memory of lives lost to violence. “Purple represents survival and strength,” says Ann de Ste Croix, THANS Executive Director. “Thanks to the participation of communities across the province, we’re creating a visible reminder that we stand with survivors.”
The following communities will light up local landmarks in purple throughout November, creating a symbolic chain of support across the province:
- Amherst
- Kentville
- Bridgewater
- Yarmouth
- Digby
- Port Hawkesbury
- New Glasgow
- Pictou
- Truro
- Halifax
- Sydney
Examples include the iconic Fiddle in Sydney, Kentville’s town gazebo, Truro’s local library, and the Nova Scotia Legislature in Halifax. This province-wide initiative is part of a larger national movement, led by the London Abused Women’s Centre, with landmarks across Canada illuminated in purple to raise awareness and support survivors.
Key Facts on Domestic Violence in Nova Scotia:
- 79% of survivors of domestic violence are women.
- Fewer than 1 in 5 incidents of domestic violence are reported to the police.
- In 2023, THANS member organizations served approximately 4,500 women and children experiencing domestic violence.
“While conversations around domestic violence are becoming more frequent, there’s still a need to ensure these discussions are open, constructive, and supportive,” says de Ste Croix. “Domestic violence can be a challenging topic, but public awareness is vital for prevention and for breaking the cycle of abuse. Campaigns like Shine the Light make these issues visible, encouraging dialogue and community engagement.”
In September, Nova Scotia declared intimate partner violence an epidemic through the passing of Bill 482, the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act. Communities play a vital role in combating domestic violence, whether by listening to survivors, sharing resources, volunteering, or supporting local organizations. “By fostering supportive environments and standing firmly against abuse, we can be powerful allies in creating safer communities for all,” de Ste Croix adds.
Join Us in the Campaign:
Nova Scotians are encouraged to support survivors and raise awareness by visiting local landmarks lit up in purple, sharing messages of support on social media using #ShineTheLightOnDV, and learning more about domestic violence prevention and services available in their communities.