Somerville Annual Vigil Honoring Victims of Domestic Violence Oct. 28

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, the Somerville Commission for Women, RESPOND, Inc., and the Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) invite residents to attend the City’s annual Domestic Violence Vigil on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. This annual vigil is dedicated to commemorating the lives lost to domestic violence in the past year, recognizing the strength of survivors, and renewing our community’s shared commitment to eradicating domestic violence. 

Attendees will be invited to raise a candle in remembrance of domestic violence victims and join neighbors from across Somerville at the location. Community groups will be tabling with information and resources. 

“Each year this important vigil brings us together as a community to stand in solidarity with survivors, victims, and all who are impacted by domestic violence,” said Mayor Katjana Ballantyne. “As we gather, we build on their strength with our collective strength. We honor those lost by holding them in our collective memory. And we reaffirm our collective commitment to ending the violence and creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone in Somerville. All are needed for this effort, and all are welcome to join us.” 

When and Where

The 2025 Somerville Domestic Violence Vigil will begin at 6 p.m. at Somernova (19 Properzi Way). Attendees can access the event space through the red door on Properzi. 

The event is free and open to the public. Light food and refreshments will be provided.  

Accessibility 

Persons with disabilities who need auxiliary aids and services for effective communication (i.e., CART, ASL), written materials in alternative formats, or reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to access the programs, activities, and meetings of the City of Somerville should please contact Adrienne Pomeroy in advance at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or apomeroy@somervillema.gov.  

Interpretation and Translation via SOIA 

The City of Somerville can provide you with an interpreter in your language for free. To request an interpreter, please contact us at languageaccess@somervillema.gov or call 311 (617-666-3311) at least 7 days in advance of this event. 

GovTV Recording 

This event will be videotaped by the City’s GovTV team. Watch it on-demand with optional closed-captioning (select the CC icon) on YouTube.com/SomervilleCityTV. Or watch on cable TV at GovTV ( somervillema.gov/video) Comcast Ch. 22 and GovTV Astound (RCN) Ch. 13 & 613. Videos generally post within one business day of recording.