The City of Maple Grove will glow purple this October to shed light on Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Organized by the City of Maple Grove, the lights will be lit on the exterior of the Department of Public Safety building and the Town Green every night of the month.
The Maple Grove Police Association also ordered purple patches (available for purchase) to show its commitment to taking preventative action against domestic violence. “We believe that healthy relationships among families in our community translate to healthy and safe communities,” says Eric Werner, Maple Grove’s chief of police.
Working with the city to enact primary prevention of domestic abuse is Maria’s Voice. In honor of 28-year-old Maria Pew, who lost her life to domestic violence in 2020, the local organization focuses on spreading awareness, education and safe action responses. “Maria’s Voice recognizes that Maria’s story is, sadly, one that could resonate with anyone in the community. The reality is, we all know someone who has experienced domestic abuse, whether we are aware of it or not,” says Sara Silva, executive director and Pew’s cousin.
Join the conversation at a vigil at the Town Green amphitheater from 6–7 p.m. October 6. Alongside live music and guest speakers, patrons can also purchase a $100 plaque to keep in honor of a victim of domestic violence. These plaques will be displayed along a path at the vigil to form a “memory lane.”
For more information about domestic violence, preventative response and to get involved visit mariasvoice.org.
Maple Grove Police Department
12800 Arbor Lakes Parkway; 763.494.6100
Facebook: Maple Grove Police Department
