Domestic Violence Awareness Month 

In the United States, it is estimated that up to 10 million people are affected by domestic violence. Research conducted in 2023 found that one in nine men and one in four women were victims of domestic violence. Additionally, the American Academy of Children & Adolescent Psychiatry found that each year, anywhere from three to 10 million children and adolescents are witnesses to this violence. 

To combat this complex issue, Congress declared October to serve as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in 1989. Since then, organizations and activists have been using this month to host events as a means to uplift the voices, needs and experiences of survivors. 

In North Dakota, thousands of survivors face numerous challenges as they seek safety, financial independence, stable housing and possibly custody of their children. To show support, you can wear purple, volunteer or donate to your local shelters or participate in awareness campaigns. 

If you are in need of help, there are various local resources. The Rape and Abuse Crisis Center’s 24-hour crisis line can be reached at 701-293-7273. The YWCA emergency shelter 24-hour line can be reached at 701-232-349.

LGBTQ+ History Month 

While it may be similar to Pride Month, LGBTQ+ History Month shifts its campaign towards a more focused lens. Rather than just celebrating everyone as a whole, it includes bringing awareness to the history of gay rights and related civil rights movements. 

Although this month can first be observed in 1994, it was not made a national history month until 2009 by former President Barack Obama. However, it was still being celebrated anyways and continues to be used as a moment to celebrate the progress made and contributions LGBTQ+ people have made in history. 

If you are looking to get more involved and learn more about LGBTQ+ history, consider checking out the NSDU Pride Alliance. This group provides volunteer opportunities, games and crafts, has deep discussions and helps build long-lasting relationships. If you are interested, more information can be located on the myNDSU website. 

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

With the most recent data available, the CDC found that over 270,000 new cases of breast cancer were reported in 2021 and over 42,000 women died from it in 2022. Like other forms of cancer, survival rates can vary heavily based on which stage it was detected at. It is noted that metastasis, or the spreading of cancer cells to other parts of the body, is the leading cause of death from breast cancer.

With data that suggests one in four cases of breast cancer could have been prevented, it is imperative that proper attention is being brought to it. The first nationalized effort to celebrate breast cancer awareness goes back to October 1985 during a week-long event organized by the American Cancer Society. 

Locally, Pink Plaid is a non-profit organization that became official and has served our community since 2020. Their mission is to make a positive impact on the community by bringing awareness to breast cancer and offering financial support to those in need. By going onto their website, you can find opportunities to donate and a place to submit a funding application.

Additional Mentions

Blindness Awareness Month; Filipino-American Heritage Month; Global Diversity Month; National Disability Employment Awareness Month; Bullying Prevention Month.