Sad Fact: 1 in 4 women are affected by domestic violence in their lifetime. Statistically speaking, you or someone you know has been deeply affected by this reality. That’s why it’s crucial we take the conversation about this epidemic from behind closed doors to the public.
There are many reasons why women stay in these unhealthy relationships. Statistics show that about 98% of domestic abuse cases involve financial abuse. It is the way abusers keep their victims trapped.
The AllState Foundation has taken a stand against domestic violence and financial abuse. In an unprecedented campaign, Kerri Washingon, Emmy-nominated actress and domestic violence activist, has designed a limited-edition purple purse for the campaign. It was created to inspire women to reclaim their financial independence. Take a look at this special handbag below.
Today is also the annual Brides March in New York City. The women who attend this march dress in wedding gowns in memory of Gladys Ricart and all of the victims of domestic abuse. As you may recall, Gladys was murdered by her ex boyfriend on the day of her wedding to another man. She was wearing her wedding gown on what should have been the most beautiful day of her life when she was murdered in cold blood in front of her friends and family. It was a tragedy that was felt by almost every New Yorker 15 years ago today.
I will not be wearing a wedding dress because I’ll be on the clock but I am dressing in all white in solidarity with group. I’ll also be wearing my Purple Purse charm on my purple Longchamp bag. This charm was designed for the the Purple Purse campaign so that anyone could join the movement and lend their support to end domestic violence and financial abuse.
The charm features purple suede tassels. It has gold hardware and is adorned with a small gold colored medallion with the image of a purple purse etched on it. Although you may not be able to go home with the Kerri Washington purple purse, you will be able to turn any handbag you own into a purple purse with this bag charm.
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or TTY 1-800-787-3224. Learn more about the AllState Foundation’s Purple Purse campaign here.
