Sikh temple turns purple to raise awareness of domestic violence

Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick, in High Street, will light up purple each night as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The gurdwara has teamed up with charitable group Black Country Women's Aid as part of the good-hearted initiative.

Purple represents the colour of the purple ribbon which is the symbol of the domestic violence awareness campaign.

The temple first turned purple on Thursday night, in an event attended by gurdwara president Jaswinder Singh, Raj Thind and Raj Gill from the Black Country Women's Aid.

Mr Singh said: "Lighting up the Gurdwara building in the colour purple is more than a symbolic gesture, as domestic violence has surged during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"To create change, we have to talk openly and acknowledge how domestic violence affects our communities, our families and our lives. Domestic violence cannot be ignored."

Sara Ward, chief executive of Black Country Women's Aid, said: "I am overwhelmed by the support of our friends at Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick in our 'Go Purple' campaign - especially during these challenging times.

"Their support for victims of abuse is unfailing.

"Lighting up this beautiful building purple for a second year will show the whole community that we continue to challenge violence within the home.

"We stand together in supporting victims and we send a message of hope to all that there are safe spaces in Sandwell to get help and support."