Five days into Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the purple ribbons are reminding people to pay attention. Today, let’s carry that awareness into the way we treat someone who trusts us with their story.
At RADV, being a bridge means helping someone find a way forward while respecting that the next step belongs to them.
A survivor deserves to be heard. They deserve compassion. And they deserve a voice in decisions about their own life.
Make room for their voice
When someone tells you they are experiencing abuse, you may want to fix everything immediately. That concern comes from a caring place. But a helpful response begins with listening.
The Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence encourages supporters to believe survivors, avoid blame, and respect their decisions. Survivors know their situations best.
Try asking:
“What would be helpful to you right now?”
Leave room for the answer. You do not need their entire story before you can show kindness.
Offer something you can actually do
An offer of help becomes more useful when it is clear and manageable.
You might say:
- “Would you like me to sit with you while you contact a help center?”
- “If you want company at an appointment, I can go with you.”
- “Would a meal or help with an errand make today a little easier?”
Ask first, and let them decide. Be honest about what you can provide. A small promise kept can mean more than a big promise left hanging.
Let care be patient
You may not understand every decision someone makes. You can still speak with kindness.
Avoid criticism or guilt. Offer to help them connect with an advocate who can discuss safety and resources.
A compassionate response might sound like this:
“I care about your safety. If you want help exploring your options, I’m here to listen.”
Those words leave a door open. They tell someone they can return without having to defend themselves.
A word to the survivor
You do not owe anyone a public explanation of what you have lived through.
You deserve support that respects your dignity. You deserve to ask questions, consider your options, and have your concerns taken seriously.
Whether today brings a conversation, a request for help, or a quiet moment to catch your breath, your life matters.
You survived. You matter. Keep going. One mile at a time.
Your Day Five action
Today, practice one question:
“What would be helpful to you right now?”
Then listen. If they ask for something you can safely and realistically offer, follow through.
That is one way awareness becomes action. That is one way we become the bridge.
Find a connection to help
Visit RADV.org for connections to domestic violence resources. RADV is a referral bridge; contact the listed help centers directly to discuss your needs and available services.
In the United States, the National Domestic Violence Hotline offers support 24/7. Call 800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or visit TheHotline.org. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 if you can safely do so. If your device may be monitored, use a safer device to seek help when possible.
We Are the Bridge. Your best miles are ahead.
Riders Against Domestic Violence | RADV.org
Bloom Beyond Bruises — An RADV Initiative
© 2026 Riders Against Domestic Violence (RADV)