The Fraser Valley is looking more purple this month — and for good reason.

Across the Valley, businesses and community members are encouraged to shine purple lights, wear purple, and share educational information as part of Purple Lights Nights, a campaign marking Intimate Partner Violence Awareness Month.

Throughout October, the splash of violet will signal support for those who have survived intimate partner violence and those who have lost their lives to it. Purple Lights Nights (PLN) began in 2006 in Washington state to "shine a light" on domestic violence and has since been embraced by communities across North America.

The campaign kicked off in the Fraser Valley on Oct. 3 with an official launch event at the Abbotsford Farmers Market in Jubilee Park. 

Since then, this year's PLN has gathered "strong community support," according to the Abbotsford Police, a campaign partner and a member of the Domestic Violence Task Force formed by Abbotsford and Mission.

"Across Abbotsford, several locations have also proudly switched on purple lights to show their support and take a stand against gender-based violence," AbbyPD said in a statement.

"This is a visible reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a safer, more caring community."

There are still two weeks left to take part in the campaign, and PLN organizers have created a guide to help people and businesses get the word out, including a free kit for businesses to create social media posts and share resources.

The PLN website offers a comprehensive list of nearby supports for Fraser Valley residents experiencing intimate partner violence.

If you're looking to get more information on local resources for domestic violence, the PNL Fraser Valley team will have a booth at the following events: