The leaves are changing, the air is crisp and the days are getting shorter. October is the time of year that is generally associated with pumpkins and candy. Apart from Halloween, there are other themes that can be recognized as well.
People nationwide are sporting purple attire during the month of October to honor victims of domestic violence. Rainbow pins, flags and buttons are symbols of support and pride for people of the LGBTQ community. Mankato is a city that is becoming increasingly known for actively advocating for safe spaces and spreading love.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) began as an effort to end violence against women and children across America in 1981. It was started by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence as the “Day of Unity.”
Today, advocates spread awareness and stand in solidarity for survivors by wearing purple, emphasizing warning signs and shining light on available resources.
The Committee Against Domestic Abuse (CADA) held a candlelight vigil, Monday, in honor of those who have lost their lives to domestic and relationship violence. Attendees met at the Mankato Public Safety building. Public Safety Commander, Jeremy Clifton, said the home is a space where everyone should be able to feel safe. Community members gathered as names of victims were read.
Out of our Minds is an event that is being held by CADA at the Coffee Hag, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. It is a performance written by 19 domestic violence survivors to demonstrate the thoughts of women experiencing situations of violence.
CADA is located at 100 Stadium Ct, Mankato, MN 56001. Office hours typically run from 8 a.m. 4 p.m.
- Crisis Line: 1-800-477-0466
- 24 Hours: (507) 625-3966
- Shelter: (507) 625-3966
National Coming Out Day
National Coming Out Day (NCOD) began in 1988. Robert Eichsberg and Jean O’ Leary marked the anniversary of the March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, in 1977.
David Gardner, the Interim Assistant Director of the LGBT Center at Minnesota State University, Mankato, organized a photo project for Coming Out Week. Students, faculty and staff wrote supportive messages on whiteboards and photos were posted in a display case.
Tuesday, Oct. 11 was official NCOD. Gardner wanted to give people the opportunity to come out and express their identity, even if it didn’t mean coming out as gay.
A white door with a painted rainbow stood outside the CSU surrounded by colorful balloons. Students had the opportunity to choose or create signs that fit their identity. Some of the signs read, “Proud,” “Queer” and “Ally” others said, “Vegan,” “Christian” and “Hillary Clinton Voter.”
“We’ve had phenomenal support and participation from the LGBT, Ally and MNSU Community,” said Gardner. “If anyone is struggling with gender identity or being an ally I can set up a meeting.”
The LGBT Center is located at 194 Centennial Student Union, Mankato, MN 56001. Office Hours run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Office Line: (507) 389-5131
- Email: david.gardner@mnsu.edu
October is the time of year for dressing up and drinking lattes. It is also the time of year to show solidarity for victims and survivors of domestic abuse and to support members of the LGBT community. The wave of pride and solidarity that October brings is yet another factor that makes this time of year great.
Photographs taken by Vanessa Boreland and David Gardner.