Iconic Dublin landmarks light up in solidarity with victims and survivors of sexual violence

Some of Dublin’s best-known public buildings are being lit up in purple from dusk to dawn until 18 October as Dublin Rape Crisis Centre’s ‘Lights of Hope’ campaign returns for a second year.

Right across the city, from the Phoenix Park to Kildare Street, the buildings include the National Museum, the National Library, Collins Barracks, the Casino at Marino, the Department of Education and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

The campaign follows the publication last week of Dublin Rape Crisis Centre’s second annual survey of public attitudes to sexual violence, which found that nearly half of adults in Ireland know someone who has experienced sexual violence and that for victims and survivors, it is the fear of not being believed that remains the single biggest barrier to them coming forward.

Rachel Morrogh, Chief Executive of Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, said: “One in two women and more than one in four men in Ireland will experience sexual violence in their lifetime. Survivors are in every classroom, every workplace, every audience and every community in this city, and they need our solidarity.

“These buildings, from the departments that shape our schools and workplaces to the library and museum that hold our national story, are lighting up to say to each of them: you are seen, you are believed, and you are not alone.

“Our research indicates that fear of not being believed is greatest barrier to coming forward, and that fear is fed by attitudes that still linger in Irish society.

“We must make it plain that we will listen without judgement, that we will stand with survivors, and that support is there whenever they are ready.

“Purple is the international colour of dignity and courage in the face of sexual violence. For the next two weeks, it will be visible across Dublin.

“Whether someone is taking their first step towards healing, or just trying to get through the day, we want them to look up and know that free and confidential help is available 24 hours a day, and that there are people out there who support and believe them.”

Members of the public are invited to show their support by sharing a photo of a purple-lit landmark or a purple light in their own window using #LightsOfHopeIRL and tagging Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.

Dublin Rape Crisis Centre said it is deeply grateful to the Office of Public Works for its support.