Government offices, business buildings, churches and community spaces around the island will light up purple tomorrow in recognition of people affected by domestic abuse.

Purple Thursday, which this year carries the theme “Silence to Light”, is a national campaign designed to raise awareness of domestic abuse and stand in solidarity with victims and survivors.

Organisers said that the event, now in its third year, has grown from “a symbolic tribute to a national movement of visibility and compassion”.

Organised by Tammy Richardson-Augustus, an abuse prevention activist, it aims to “break through the silence” surrounding domestic abuse and inspire systemic reform through public engagement, partnership and education.

“Purple Thursday comes at a defining moment,” she said.

“Our community is under strain and the need for institutional courage has never been greater.

“It’s been profoundly moving to witness dozens of organisations step forward. The purple lights are more than a symbol; they are our collective promise to act in the best interest of survivors.

“Change begins when we illuminate what’s been hidden and refuse to look away”

Some of Hamilton’s most emblematic buildings will be illuminated, each one “a beacon of remembrance and resolve”, including the Cabinet Office, Hamilton Police Station, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, City Hall and the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.

Also to be lit up as part of the “act of solidarity” include the buildings of The Royal Gazette, One Communications, the Argus Group, BF&M, Demco Florist, Urban Cottage, Strands Skin Spa and Hair Salon, Brown & Co, and Habitat for Humanity, as well as other community and private sector partners.

Other organisations will encourage staff to wear purple, host awareness activities or contribute to island charities supporting victims of abuse, including the Coalition for the Protection of Children, the Centre Against Abuse, Family Centre, Women’s Resource Centre and Scars.

Abigail Clifford, the group president and chief executive of Allshores — formerly BF&M and Argus — said: “The strength of our island lies in our community, in how we come together to support one another.

“Domestic abuse affects far too many lives, and it’s something we must face together.

“This year’s theme, ‘Silence to Light’, reflects our shared obligation to foster a culture of safety, dignity and accountability.”

Darrin Simons, the Commissioner of Police, urged anyone experiencing domestic violence to speak out and seek help.

“Silence only protects the abuser; light gives strength to those who need it most.” he said.

“Domestic violence is a deeply harmful crime affecting our community. It shatters families, erodes trust and leaves victims with lasting emotional and physical scars.

“Too often it is hidden by silence and fear.

“The Bermuda Police Service remain committed to ending this by supporting victims when they call for assistance or make a report, holding offenders accountable and collectively working with our various community partners to break the cycle of abuse”

Roydell Neverson, a hotel manager at the Hamilton Princess, said the establishment was proud to support the campaign.

She said: “In hospitality, safety is the first principle, and we stand united with our fellow participating partners in raising awareness, supporting victims and survivors of abuse, and fostering a secure environment for all.”

Forget Me Not Canine Centre said it also stands in solidarity with domestic abuse survivors, as well as with animals harmed in silence.

Esther Douglas and Kelly Glazebrook, its founders, said: “The link between animal abuse and human abuse is undeniable; both are acts of control, fear and suffering that too often go hand in hand.

“Violence rarely begins overnight; it starts with red flags — isolation, intimidation and cruelty.

“By recognising these signs early, we can intervene before harm escalates. Protecting animals helps protect people. And when we speak up, we give voice to those who can’t.”

The theme this year was said by organisers to underscore Bermuda’s pledge to focus on survivor wellbeing, uphold international best practices and fortify the integrity of the island’s legal institutions.

Bermuda is nearing the launch of a dedicated Domestic Violence Court while community organisations including the Centre Against Abuse seek to support the Government and other stakeholders in the establishment of a Domestic Violence Act and a National Domestic Abuse Awareness and Prevention Plan.

Participants of Purple Thursday were encouraged to share photographs and messages of support on social media using #PurpleThursdayBermuda.

• Anyone interested in participating should e-mail Ms Augustus-Richardson at trichardsonaugustus@gmail.com