Purple Waters Run Deep

Are you wondering why purple water is now springing from the Maine Street fountain?

Leanna Lehman
10/08/2020 08:50 AM (update 04/11/2023 01:53 AM)

According to Rose M. Garrity, board president of National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), the historically feminine hue was first used by the National Women’s Party in the early 1900s when the women’s suffrage movement began rallying for women’s rights. Additionally, lavender was the color of choice when nearly 100,000 equal rights supporters descended on Washington DC in 1978. Over time, purple became the banner color for organizations dedicated to combatting domestic violence. And, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

To raise awareness and support of the many survivors of domestic abuse, the City of Fallon has dyed the water in the iconic fountain purple. Additionally, a clothesline has been temporarily erected in Millennial Park to showcase T-shirts painted by local survivors of domestic violence.

Fallon Mayor Ken Tedford was on hand while City crews made the color change to the fountain on Wednesday. “Domestic violence is a curse on our nation,” Tedford stated, “And as a city, we believe that wherever we can help, we should.”

Churchill County Domestic Violence Intervention (DVI) has been assisting local victims of domestic and sexual violence for many years. Fallon City Councilwomen Kelly Frost and Karla Kent were also present to show their support of Domestic Violence Awareness along with the great work done by DVI. “We really appreciate what DVI does,” Frost said, “they are helping keep people safe and alive.”

“Many victims don’t want to self-identify,” according to Karen Moessner, DVI director. “Sometimes this is something that is kept hidden for a very long time. With increased awareness, community members can help victims connect with DVI and other support organizations so they don’t have to face their trauma alone."

With a 24-hour hotline, crisis intervention, an emergency shelter, extensive referral services, peer counseling, support groups, and assistance in court, DVI has become critical to the community’s support services.

Friends and family can also offer support in tangible ways. DVI is always seeking volunteers, financial support, and assistance for victims. Basic items are always needed: paper towels, toilet paper, dishwashing soap, clothes detergent, facial tissue, general cleaning supplies, trash bags, shampoo, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand soap, shower gels, feminine hygiene products, diapers, bath towels, washcloths, and non-perishable food items.

If you or someone you know is being abused or in crisis, DVI is available to help at 775-423-1313 or on the emergency hotline at 775-427-1500 24/7 also at https://www.facebook.com/dvi89406/ & https://www.ncedsv.org/resources/