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By Ian Gustafson

Raising awareness

Purple Night Lights campaign returns for Family Violence Prevention Month

Nov 4, 2025 | 5:14 PM

The Purple Light Nights campaign has returned to Red Deer in honour of Family Violence Prevention Month.

The campaign, which was brought to central Alberta in 2016 by Soroptimist International of Central Alberta in conjunction with the Outreach Centre, aims to bring awareness to the issue of domestic violence.

Sherrie Smith, president of Soroptimist International of Central Alberta, said over the last nine years, the campaign has been all about encouraging people to shine purple lights on their porch, trees, etc., to raise awareness.

“This way you can start a conversation about why you might be shining the purple light, which is meant to talk about domestic violence,” she explained.

Soroptimist International has lights available for purchase, including for porches and garages, as well as string lights. They also have wreaths that have purple lights on them and t-shirts.

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The proceeds from the sales will go straight into a fund they created called the Purple Angel Fund. The fund was developed to help children who’ve lost a parent to domestic violence with educational costs they aren’t able to afford.

The Outreach Centre and the Domestic Relationship Violence Initiative Committee are also in talks with the City of Red Deer to light up City Hall purple for one night this month. Although a date has not been set yet, they plan to set a date in the near future. Other local landmarks may also be lit up throughout the month.

In the meantime, executive director of the Red Deer Outreach Centre Ian Wheeliker said they’ll host a free open house on Nov. 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. as an information session on family violence. Those in attendance are encouraged to wear the colour purple, and the building will also be lit purple at some point.

“Domestic violence is not acceptable, and it should not be happening. There are just so many wonderful agencies out there that help people who’ve been affected by domestic violence; it’s just amazing the work they do,” Smith said. “It’s just a shame to think that it happens in families, and it shouldn’t. People deserve to be safe, and this campaign brings awareness and helps support people who have been affected by it.”

The Lacombe Police Service reports that Alberta has the third-highest rate of self-reported spousal violence among Canadian provinces.

They explained that family violence is preventable and can take many forms, such as physical, emotional, financial, sexual, and verbal.

They added that prevention starts with compassion, awareness, and connection, and that everyone can play a role in supporting victims and creating a safer community.

“Family violence affects individuals and families in every community, including our own,” said Jason Dobirstein, Police Chief for Lacombe Police Service, in a media release. “By learning to recognize the signs and offering support, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours and loved ones.”

Meantime, police say the Heart of Lacombe will be lit purple to symbolize courage, survival, and honour for those impacted by family violence.

Residents are encouraged to visit the park or wear purple to show solidarity.

“Lighting the heart in purple is a visible reminder that Lacombe stands together against family violence,” said Debbie Barron, Lacombe Victim Services. “It represents hope, compassion, and our community’s ongoing commitment to safety and respect for all.

Support for those experiencing family violence is available 24/7, including the family violence info line at 310-1818.