By Shavonne Walker

shavonne.walker@salisburypost.com

SALISBURY — So far this year, 53 people have died in this state in domestic violence-related cases.  At a Tuesday night candlelight vigil, the public is invited to honor those who’ve died this year at the hands of a domestic violence situation and those who survived.

The vigil will be held at 7:30 p.m. on the steps of the Rowan County Courthouse on North Main Street. The vigil has been organized by the Family Crisis Council of Rowan County.

A survivor will speak during the vigil. Also during the vigil, five Rowan County Sheriff’s Office deputies will display cut-out figures that represent the silent witnesses — the people who have witnessed domestic violence.

In Rowan County, one out of three families has a domestic violence issue, Family Crisis officials have said.

Just before the vigil, attendees may have their picture taken with the “I’m Taking a Stand Against Domestic Violence” sign. Organizers will share the photos on the Family Crisis Council Facebook page.

In addition to the vigil, throughout this month, the Family Crisis Council will also have the Purple Shoe Memorial at the Rowan Public Library’s main branch on West Fisher Street. A pair of shoes will be on display for each county where a person has died in a domestic violence-related incident.

Organizers say, a death has occurred in 27 counties since this time last year. In those 27 counties, there were 53 victims.

Throughout the community, organizers have placed baskets with purple ribbons for anyone who would like to support survivors and honor victims.

Anyone who may be in a domestic violence situation, or know of someone who is, can call the Family Crisis Council’s 24-hour hotline at 704-636-4718.