Bermuda Set To Observe ‘Purple Thursday’
Bermuda is being encouraged to participate in Purple Thursday on October 16 in “remembrance and resolve for domestic abuse victims/survivors.”
A spokesperson said, “Tammy L Richardson-Augustus, a non-executive director and former law partner, has been advocating for victims/survivors of abuse for 10 years.
“As Bermuda continues to grapple with the persistent challenge of gun violence, Ms. Richardson-Augustus’ considered view is that we are overlooking a foundational driver: domestic abuse, and more specifically, the forced reunification model that binds survivors and children to abusers long after any semblance of a healthy relationship has expired.
“When children are exposed to violence, within their homes or through court decisions that prioritise contact with perpetrators over healing, we create a laboratory for violence where unresolved trauma, systemic oversight, and coerced proximity to harm converge to fuel cycles of aggression and despair.
“Tammy L Richardson-Augustus, organizer of Bermuda’s inaugural Purple Thursday in 2023 – marked by the Empty Chair Campaign, now proposes a bold expansion of this initiative for 2025 to put a bright spotlight on the fraught issue of domestic abuse.
“On the evening of Thursday 16 October 2025, she invites Bermuda to bath its most significant buildings in purple light or drape them in purple fabric, transforming our island into a civic canvas of remembrance and resolve for domestic abuse victims/survivors.
“This year’s theme, ‘Silence to Light,’ affirms our shared obligation to foster a culture of education, safety, and institutional accountability.
“This initiative seeks to elevate Purple Thursday to a national movement: one that centers victims/survivors’ dignity, confronts institutional silence, and signals Bermuda’s collective commitment to systemic reform.
“Attorney General Kim Wilkerson commended the organiser Ms. Richardson-Augustus for her ‘commitment to illuminating the serious and pervasive issue of domestic abuse in our community.’”
Ms. Wilkerson said, “Domestic abuse is a national issue that affects far too many in our society and we must be willing to address it publicly and collaboratively. This initiative reflects the same spirit that underpins the Government’s commitment to Domestic Abuse Reform; the recognition that survivors deserve swift access to justice, meaningful protection, and the support needed to rebuild their lives. Lighting our Island in purple is a visible symbol of that shared commitment.”
The spokesperson said, “The Government of Bermuda, the Bermuda Police Service, One Communication, The Cathedral, The Argus Group, BF&M Limited, Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club, and various other entities have readily agreed to participate in the campaign, lending both gravitas and visibility.”
One Communications Regional Marketing Director Shira Jatto said, “At One Communications, we believe in using our platform to support causes that matter deeply to our community. By participating in the Purple Thursday: Silence to Light campaign, we stand in solidarity with survivors of domestic abuse and help shine a light on an issue that too often remains in the shadows. Lighting our windows purple is a symbol of our commitment to awareness, compassion, and change.”
Bishop Nick Dill said, “Domestic abuse is a hidden scourge on our community – experienced by one in three persons with devastating consequences on the emotional, physical, and spiritual health not just of the victim, but those who witness it or live with them, including the most vulnerable and impressionable: our children.
“The incidence and prevalence of domestic abuse is not confined to a particular group, it is experienced in every kind of household and family situation. Our systems do not adequately support those who suffer and its negative effects ripple outward – manifesting in poor self-image and self-harm; drug taking and sexual behaviours; solace in gang culture; animal cruelty and relational complexity and other trauma related responses.
“As a community we need to ensure that people feel able to speak, that we recognize the signs of domestic abuse and provide robust protection and support. There is no justification ever for abuse in the home. I commend, wholeheartedly, initiatives to highlight domestic abuse and those individuals and agencies who provide advocacy, healing and protection.
“During this domestic abuse awareness month, let us educate ourselves and take the lid off this scourge in our community and bring to light the problem and solutions – helping us all to live without fear.”
The spokesperson said, “Ms Richardson-Augustus invites other organisations to join this national tribute on 16 October 2025 by:
- “Illuminating emblematic landmarks, buildings, monuments and public spaces in purple
- “Adorning buildings with purple banners, fabric installations or projection imagery
- “Encouraging team members to wear purple
- “Attending educational forums or events
- “Donating to worthy charities [Coalition for Protection of Children, Centre Against Abuse, Women’s Resource Centre, Family Centre, SCARs].”
Ms. Richardson-Augustus’ considered view is that we are overlooking a foundational driver: domestic abuse, and more specifically, the forced reunification model that binds survivors and children to abusers long after any semblance of a healthy relationship has expired.
“When children are exposed to violence, within their homes or through court decisions that prioritise contact with perpetrators over healing, we create a laboratory for violence where unresolved trauma, systemic oversight, and coerced proximity to harm converge to fuel cycles of aggression and despair.
You are making a difference and doing excellent work mam. My your dedication the cog in the wheel of fundamental change Bermuda so desperately need. Continued success in your endeavours and those benefitting from them.