White Ribbons Show Support For Domestic Violence Victims
By: Katie Kyros
Updated: October 19, 2012
WINCHESTER, VA - White ribbons popped up on police cars earlier this month. In the fight against domestic violence, they're the opposite of white flags.
"Just having something to inundate the community for the entire month really brings awareness," says Raine Johnson, sexual assault prevention coordinator at the Laurel Center.
The center, a shelter for victims, teamed up with local police departments. The ribbons represent men working to end violence against women.
"Because the police profession is a male-dominated profession, it was the perfect opportunity," says Johnson.
The ribbons aren't just meant to raise awareness, but to reach victims. When police go to homes for domestic violence issues, they want it to be a sign of hope for anyone being abused.
The Laurel Center says 180 women have stayed in its shelter in the past year to escape abuse.
They're holding a vigil Thursday night from 7 to 8 at the Frederick County Judicial Center, and lighting luminaries to recognize women who have been victims of domestic violence.
"Just having something to inundate the community for the entire month really brings awareness," says Raine Johnson, sexual assault prevention coordinator at the Laurel Center.
The center, a shelter for victims, teamed up with local police departments. The ribbons represent men working to end violence against women.
"Because the police profession is a male-dominated profession, it was the perfect opportunity," says Johnson.
The ribbons aren't just meant to raise awareness, but to reach victims. When police go to homes for domestic violence issues, they want it to be a sign of hope for anyone being abused.
The Laurel Center says 180 women have stayed in its shelter in the past year to escape abuse.
They're holding a vigil Thursday night from 7 to 8 at the Frederick County Judicial Center, and lighting luminaries to recognize women who have been victims of domestic violence.
