Purple lights on the street can have a few different meanings depending on the context. In recent years, purple lights have become associated with efforts to raise awareness about domestic violence and show support for survivors. However, in some cases, purple lights may simply be decorative or used for special events. Here is an overview of some of the main uses of purple lighting on streets and buildings.
Domestic Violence Awareness
One of the most common associations with purple street lights today is domestic violence awareness. Since the late 1990s, the color purple has been used as a symbol of the fight against domestic abuse. This is in part because purple is the combination of the traditional colors representing domestic violence awareness – blue for child abuse and red for battered women.
Many organizations and campaigns that work to end domestic violence use purple in their branding, materials and initiatives as a way to unite the issues of adult and child abuse under one coherent symbol. This includes high profile campaigns such as:
| Campaign | Launch Year |
|---|---|
| Purple Light Nights | 1994 |
| Go Purple | 2003 |
| Purple Purse | 2009 |
As part of promoting awareness around these issues, many cities and towns will light up buildings, landmarks, bridges and streets in purple lights during domestic violence awareness month (October) or as part of specific anti-domestic violence campaigns.
For example, Dallas lit its skyline purple during October 2021 to support the Texas Council on Family Violence. In McLean County, Illinois, the county courthouse has been illuminated in purple lights during October since 2010 to promote domestic violence education in the community.
The purpose of bathing buildings and streets in purple light is to get people talking about and bring attention to the often hidden problem of domestic abuse. The purple lights serve as a visual symbol of the movement to empower survivors and end cycles of violence.
Support for Specific Causes
Purple street lights may also be used to show support for specific anti-domestic violence organizations or initiatives.
For instance, since 2011, Spiritual Care Services at the St. Cloud Hospital in Minnesota has lit up one of its chapels in purple lights for the entire month of October in honor of the Women’s Advocacy Center. The purple chapel serves as a beacon of hope for domestic violence victims and encourages community donation to the organization.
On a smaller scale, individual homes may use purple decorative lights to communicate that the residents care about issues of family violence and gender equality. This mirrors the practice of lighting pink lights for breast cancer awareness.
Alzheimer’s Disease Advocacy
In addition to domestic violence prevention, purple lighting is also used to promote Alzheimer’s disease awareness and show support for those living with the condition.
The Alzheimer’s Association has adopted purple as its official branding color. Since 2014, the organization has encouraged people to participate in #LightTheWorldPurple on the summer solstice to shine a light on Alzheimer’s disease.
Major landmarks like Niagara Falls, the LAX Pylon and the Willis Tower have all glowed purple on the summer solstice in honor of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Light the World Purple initiative. Smaller communities also take part by lighting up local monuments and streets.
Special Events
Purple lights are sometimes used to celebrate events, create ambiance, or highlight seasonal displays. While the color choice may be inspired by the symbolic meanings described above, in these contexts the purple lights serve a purely decorative function.
A few examples include:
| Event | Use of Purple Lighting |
|---|---|
| Concerts | Stage lighting or on venue exterior |
| Festivals | Accent lighting on tents, rides, trees |
| Winter Holidays | String lights on trees, windows, displays |
Venues like theaters and concert halls may also use purple lighting to create an atmospheric effect before a show or during intermission. The vivid and moody color helps set the tone for audiences.
What Does it Mean if a House Has Purple Lights?
If you see a private home illuminated in purple, it likely indicates the residents’ support for domestic violence awareness or Alzheimer’s advocacy. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean someone in the home has directly experienced these issues.
Some other possible meanings include:
– Showing LGBTQ pride (along with rainbow colors)
– Raising awareness about disabilities (along with blue lights)
– Expressing fondness for the color purple
– Decorating for Halloween or fall
– Indicating a safe space for those in need of help or shelter
So while purple lights on a home often signify compassion for important social issues, the exact meaning can depend on other context clues, such as time of year and any other displays. Check for signs or flyers on the property for more details.
Conclusion
In summary, purple street lights most commonly represent domestic violence or Alzheimer’s awareness, though they may also be used decoratively. Look for accompanying banners or outreach materials from advocacy organizations to confirm the intended meaning in your community. Regardless of the specific cause, purple lights demonstrate a commitment to building a safer, more inclusive society.
