Have you noticed purple -- purple ribbons, clothing, and lights -- and wondered why?

Purple is the color chosen to represent the fight against domestic violence.

Each year, a specific day in October -- usually the third Thursday -- is designated as "Wear Purple Day," in which all New Yorkers are asked to join the national effort to raise awareness by wearing purple. The 2017 "Wear Purple Day" is Thursday, October 19.

Did you know:

• Nearly one in four women in the United States reports experiencing violence by a current spouse or boyfriend at some point in her life.
• Almost half the women murdered in New York State are killed by their intimate partner
• Help is available. Call 1-800-942-6906 for information and referral.

Being aware of the problem is the first step to doing something about it. It's likely that someone you know has been, or will be, a victim of domestic violence. Domestic violence affects all of us -- women, men, and children. Take a stand against domestic violence.