ST. LOUIS — October is Domestic Violence Awareness month.
Both survivors and supporters gathered in The Grove Saturday to rally against the issue.
Diamond Diva Empowerment Foundation hosted its 3rd Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Rally and Walk.
Deborah Williams said their goal is to "Paint the Lou Purple" all month long.
"It's important for us to get the word out because if you don't get the word out, if you stay silent, you'll stay in it," she said.
It's a feeling Williams is all too familiar with.
"Your abuser will make you think you need to stay silent. Your abuser will make you ashamed to say anything, don't be ashamed," she said.
That's why Williams is now helping survivors take the first step through the Diamond Diva Empowerment Foundation.
The nonprofit's mission is to help those who have experienced domestic violence.
There were 26 resource tents at Saturday's event to show the community there are so many organizations across the city that helps survivors every single day.
One of the many purple tents belonged to The Women's Safe House, according to volunteer and Donations Coordinator Melanie Dehning.
"We need to make people aware; it is very prevalent. We need to let them know there is help, they're not alone. There are resources for them, and we are all here to help them," she said.
Dehning said their shelter is the oldest and largest domestic violence shelter in the St. Louis region.
"We have housing for up to 60 women and children who are victims of domestic violence, sexual violence," she said.
For one vendor, Danielle Wilcox, the rally and walk was personal.
"I myself am a survivor," she said.
As founder of 'Naturally Created 4 You,' Wilcox said every face cleanser and mask holds a deeper meaning.
"I wanted to find something that I could be able to share my testimony, but also impact women and families," she said.
That's why part of Wilcox's profit goes to Diamond Diva, so they can keep empowering this community of survivors.
"Let people know that this isn't something to be embarrassed about. This isn't your fault. It wasn't my fault and it's not your fault either," she said.
State Representative Chantelle Nickson-Clark presented House Bill 434 Saturday, which declares the 3rd Saturday of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Day across Missouri.
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