Purple nights in October shine light on domestic violence in Surrey

Purple nights in October shine light on domestic violence in Surrey

Published 10:30 am Wednesday, September 30, 2026

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time for Surrey to shine purple as daylight fades in fall.

Purple Light Nights in cities across North America shed light on intimate partner violence and honour victims, survivors.

In Surrey for the first time, purple-light activations at Surrey Civic Plaza (Oct. 1-2, 22-31) and other sites are planned by the collective of Options Community Services, Surrey Women’s Centre, City of Surrey and Surrey Police Service.

They encourage people to join them in displaying purple lights, both in professional spaces and homes, to show that intimate partner violence has no place in Surrey. On social media, post with #SurreyShinesPurple.

Close to 48 per cent of women have experienced intimate partner violence, according to B.C. government stats.

“We all have a role to play in preventing intimate partner violence and supporting those affected by it, said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke, campaigning for re-election. “This October, we’re standing with survivors, raising awareness and reminding anyone experiencing violence that they are not alone and support is available.”

Options Community Services offers a Domestic Violence Intervention Program that includes a Mom’s Empowerment Group, designed for mothers who have experienced abuse in their intimate relationships. Also organized is a Caring Dads Group, supporting fathers in developing child-centred and abuse-free relationships with their children and their children’s mother.

“Providing specialized support for all members of a family experiencing violence in the home is a significant focus” for Options, said Elysa Philip, director of programs.

Since 1992, Surrey Women’s Centre provides wraparound support to survivors of gender-based violence.

“Purple Light Nights is a time to honour those whose lives have been touched by intimate partner violence while sending a powerful message that survivors are not alone, and that together we can create pathways to safety, healing and hope,” said Shahnaz Rahman, executive director.

While police are often among the first points of contact for people experiencing domestic violence, prevention and support extend beyond a police response.

“Purple Light Nights is an important way to demonstrate that our community stands with the victims of intimate partner violence,” said Todd Matsumoto, Surrey Police Service interim chief constable.

Those experiencing domestic violence can contact Fraser Health Crisis Line (604-951-8855, options.bc.ca), Surrey Women’s Centre Crisis Line (604-583-1295) or Surrey Police Service’s victim services (604-599-7600).