For Immediate Release: October 16, 2026
Media Contact: Debra Evans, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Division Chief, debra.evans@alexandria.va.gov, 571.379.2633.

Alexandria, Va. – In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Alexandria Domestic Violence Program will host a Silent Witness Candlelight Vigil and Memorial Program at the Alexandria Courthouse (520 King Street) on Wednesday, October 21, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., to raise awareness and create a space of healing through a visual memorial, which includes life-sized silhouettes of the people in Alexandria whose lives have been lost to acts of domestic violence.

The event will include a private silhouette viewing for families affected by domestic violence from 6- 6:30 p.m., followed by a public program and reception.

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive or coercive behaviors such as physical assaults, verbal abuse or threat or harm that are used by one individual to exert power or control over another in the context of a family or intimate relationship. These acts can be perpetrated by a current or former spouse or partner, parent, or relative and can occur in relationships between people who do not live together and persons in same-sex relationships.

For more information about domestic violence and the Alexandria Domestic Violence Program, visit alexandriava.gov/DomesticViolence. If you or someone you know may be a victim of domestic violence, call 703.746.4911 to speak with someone about the services offered.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact debra.evans@alexandriava.gov or 571.379.2633, Virginia Relay 711.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you. Please email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.