FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The month of October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Fort Wayne is making efforts to join the conversation.

Mayor Tom Henry declared Friday, Oct. 28 as “Wear Your Purple Day” in the city of Fort Wayne. The day was declared to raise awareness for the efforts to end domestic violence, according to the city of Fort Wayne.

“Domestic violence affects the workplace and legal systems; and it is a critical healthcare issue,” according to a press release from the city. “Women, men and children of all ages are affected by violence and abuse.”

At 11:45 a.m. Friday, local businesses and the Fort Wayne Police Department will join residents for a balloon release at the Allen County Courthouse front lawn.

You can buy “Rise Up Against Domestic Violence” t-shirts for $15. You can pre-order the shirts by calling 260-427-1205