October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the "Day of Unity" in October, 1981 and was conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

 The intent was to connect advocates across the nation in working to end violence against women and their children.  The Day of Unity soon became an entire week devoted to range of activities conducted at the local, state, and national levels.

 In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed.  That same year marks the initiation of the first national domestic violence toll-free hotline.

In 1989, the U.S. Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of the year as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.