City of San Antonio Marks Start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Published on October 02, 2024
New ordinance and awareness campaign strengthens support for survivors.
SAN ANTONIO (October 2, 2024) — The Collaborative Commission on Domestic Violence (CCDV), City of San Antonio, and Bexar County are joining efforts to mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This month-long campaign aims to increase community awareness and support for survivors of domestic violence through the Purple Porch SA campaign and the Domestic Violence Resource Signs Ordinance.
Starting now, residents, organizations, and businesses are encouraged to light or decorate their porch in purple to raise awareness about domestic violence and support healing for survivors. San Antonians can amplify their engagement by sharing photos on social media using hashtag #PurplePorchSA.
October 1 marks the enforcement phase for a new ordinance requiring domestic violence resources signage to be posted in places of public accommodation within the City of San Antonio. The ordinance requires places of public accommodation and local businesses to display signage in their bathrooms to increase access to domestic violence prevention resources.
“Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder that we must come together to support survivors and actively work to prevent violence in our community,” Deputy City Manager Maria Villagómez said. “The Domestic Violence Resource Sign Ordinance strengthens support for survivors and ensures they can access information and resources. Together, we can create a safe and healthy environment for all.”
The Domestic Violence Resource Signs ordinance was passed in October 2023 and complements the state-mandated signage containing information to prevent human trafficking (Texas Government Code, § 402.0351).
Residents can call 3-1-1 to report any business not currently displaying the sign. While there are no monetary penalties for businesses, a Metro Health inspector will visit the business to enforce compliance. For more information on the ordinance, businesses can visit SA.gov/DVSigns.
“Our justice system has a role in supporting all people affected by domestic violence, including those who have harmed others,” said The Honorable Monique Diaz, Judge of the 150th Judicial District Court. “We must work as a coordinated system alongside our partners to serve our community.”
For more information about Purple Porch SA, please visit CCDV.org.