LAWS Plans Domestic Violence Awareness Month Events and Partnerships in Leesburg

The Leesburg Diversity Commission convened on August 13, 2025, to discuss plans for Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) and other community engagement initiatives. Tessa from LAWS (Loudoun Abused Women’s Shelter) presented a collaborative proposal to organize events aimed at raising awareness about domestic violence, building on the success of last year's activities.

Tessa highlighted the impactful nature of last year's DVAM event held on the town green, which featured survivor testimonies and community participation. She expressed enthusiasm for partnering again this year, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in these initiatives. The commission discussed various activities, including a "Purple My Porch" project, where residents and businesses would display purple lights to symbolize support for domestic violence awareness. Additionally, Tessa mentioned plans for a fundraising event, "Corpse for a Cause," scheduled for October 17, which would prevent co-sponsorship of any events on that date.

The meeting also addressed a potential partnership with the Office of the Attorney General to host an event at a local church, aimed at training individuals in the Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) and raising awareness about domestic violence. This collaboration would include survivor voices and local community members, further enhancing the outreach efforts.

The commission recognized the need to draft a proclamation for DVAM, similar to last year's, which would require timely submission to the Board of Supervisors for review. The discussions also touched on scheduling conflicts, particularly with a job fair planned for October 18, ensuring that events do not overlap and overwhelm community resources.

In summary, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to addressing domestic violence through community engagement and collaboration with local organizations. As plans develop, the commission aims to finalize event details and continue fostering awareness and support for affected individuals in Leesburg.