The thought of October brings many things to the surface, such as leaves, football, candy, Halloween, pumpkin spice lattes, the color pink, breast cancer awareness movements and so on.
However, did you know that breast cancer is not the only awareness subject labeled to the month? Here’s a list of five other issues that are observed during this time:
1. Blindness Awareness: Sponsored by the Little Rock Foundation out of Vorhees, New Jersey, in 2009, this recognition is to educate the public about blindness and living without sight. Their campaign utilizes social media and uses #BlindnessAwarenessMonth.
2. National Bully Prevention: Like the breast cancer awareness movement, this campaign is associated with a color. Since 2006, supporters have worn orange to show their support on proclaimed ‘Unity Day.’ Communities and individuals can get involved with the founding organization, PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, and sign a digital pledge and share their #CleanTheMean story on social media. The organization also has available resources for those who would like to organize a group activity.
3. AIDS Awareness: This educational movement was formalized by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. The goal of AIDS Awareness month is to educate about the incurable disease and its spread. According to hiv.gov, there are 1.1 million people living with AIDS, also known as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, in the United States today.
4. Down Syndrome Awareness: October also serves as Down Syndrome Awareness month. The first event of this campaign and the most popular is the Buddy Walk. The Buddy Walk has been an awareness raising activity since 1995 and takes place across the country. The National Down Syndrome Society sponsored event raises money for programs and organizations that assist those with down syndrome.
5. National Domestic Violence Awareness: National Domestic Violence Awareness Month was first observed in 1987 and formalized by Congress in 1989. It came about from the ‘Day of Unity’ through the efforts of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. This program aims to end domestic violence through contact with legislators while celebrating survivors and paying respect for deceased victims.
These are just a few of many awareness topics that are observed through the month of October. To learn more about these movements and how to participate in them with your campus organization, please visit the respective websites.
Photo courtesy of Pixabay.