Day of Unity

Day of Unity in the United States is observed annually on the first Monday in October as part of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In 2025 it will be observed on October 6. The day is dedicated to remembering victims, supporting survivors, and uniting advocates and communities in the efforts to end domestic violence. ¹

History of Day of Unity

The Day of Unity originated in October 1981, conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), as a way to bring advocates across the country together to oppose domestic violence and support those affected.Over time, the initiative expanded: what started as one day eventually grew into a week of coordinated activities, and later was integrated into the observance of the full month of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

In 1987, the first full Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed, taking the themes of the Day of Unity—mourning lives lost, celebrating survivors, and connecting those working to end abuse—and applying them to a broader campaign. In 1989, the U.S. Congress formally designated October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Why is Day of Unity important?

Day of Unity plays a symbolic and strategic role: symbolically, it offers a moment when the public pauses to acknowledge the suffering caused by domestic violence—and to affirm that victims and survivors are neither forgotten nor alone. Strategically, it serves to concentrate advocacy, media attention, and community resources around prevention, support services, and policy change.

Because domestic violence often occurs behind closed doors, this day helps crack that barrier of silence. It signals solidarity, encourages survivors to seek help, and invites everyone—neighbors, institutions, governments—to take responsibility. It also helps anchor the month-long observance, giving structure to events and amplifying voices that demand safer, more compassionate systems.

• It honors those who lost their lives to domestic violence
• It uplifts survivors and affirms their stories
• It focuses community attention and resources on prevention
• It strengthens connections between advocates and service providers
• It encourages public awareness, policy change, and accountability

How to Observe Day of Unity

You don’t need a large budget or a grand program to participate. You could host or join a local memorial gathering—lighting candles or displaying symbols—to remember lives lost to domestic violence. Offering a safe space for survivors to share their experiences, if they wish, can also be powerful.

You might also support or promote domestic violence services—donating to shelters or counseling programs, volunteering your time, or helping with awareness campaigns. In workplaces or schools, you could organize information sessions, distribute educational materials, or advocate for policies that support survivors. Even simply wearing purple (a color strongly associated with domestic violence awareness) can serve as a visible sign of solidarity.

Some practical ideas:

• Hold a small remembrance or vigil in your community
• Wear purple or use symbols of awareness
• Share survivor stories, facts, and resources publicly
• Volunteer time or donate to local domestic violence organizations
• Advocate for stronger protections, services, or institutional policies

Day of Unity Dates Table

1. https://www.fdu.edu/tcc/national-awareness-observances/october-domestic-violence-awareness/[↩]