CULLMAN, Ala. – Mayor Woody Jacobs has proclaimed October 2026 Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the city of Cullman, joining communities across the country in raising awareness, supporting survivors and recognizing the organizations and advocates working to prevent domestic violence.
Representatives from The Willow Path joined Jacobs at Cullman City Hall Sept. 30 for the proclamation. The proclamation recognizes domestic violence as a serious public health and safety issue that can affect people of all backgrounds and have lasting effects on victims, families, workplaces and communities. It also calls on residents to honor survivors, remember those lost, raise awareness, support local services and work together to end domestic violence.
“We’re fortunate to have The Willow Path and other organizations in our community that are there to help people when they need it most,” Jacobs said. “I appreciate the work they do to help victims find safety, support and a way forward. That work makes a real difference for individuals and families in our community.”
Domestic Violence Awareness Month has been nationally recognized each October since 1989. The 2026 national campaign continues the theme “With Survivors, Always,” emphasizing the importance of moving beyond awareness to action and standing with survivors through safety, support and solidarity.
Locally, The Willow Path has served Cullman County for more than three decades. Established in 1991 as Victim Services of Cullman, the organization became The Willow Path in 2025. The organization provides emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, prevention education and long-term support for survivors of domestic violence.
The Willow Path is also encouraging the community to participate in National Wear Purple Day.
“Oct. 22 is National Wear Purple Day! We are asking all of our community members to wear purple that day,” said Executive Director Jessica Atchley. “Need a purple ribbon? Call our office and we will deliver one for you and your whole team that week!”
Purple is widely recognized as the color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, providing a visible way for individuals, businesses, offices and organizations to show support for survivors and help bring attention to domestic violence in their communities.
As stated in the city’s proclamation, domestic violence can be prevented through collective action to raise awareness, support survivors, promote healthy relationships and build safer communities.
Find out more about The Willow Path at www.thewillowpath.org.
