It’s Time 2 TLK About Domestic Violence.

Many studies have found that nearly one in three women will be abused in her lifetime, however, the subject of domestic violence is rarely discussed. Verizon Wireless, Liz Claiborne Inc. and Marie Claire magazine have joined forces to help change that during Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October.

From October 7 through October 26, wireless users* with phones capable of text messaging can use their wireless phones to help raise awareness ofdomestic violence by taking part in a text poll aimed to find out how many people know someone who is a victim or perpetrator of domestic violence. To participate, text ‘TALK’ to ‘ENDDV’ (or 36338) from a text messaging-capable phone. Texters will then receive the question “Do you know anyone who has been a victim or a perpetrator of domestic violence?” and will be asked to text a response of either (V) for victim, (P) for perpetrator, (N) for neither, or (B) for both. Standard text messaging rates apply, and Verizon Wireless and Liz Claiborne will announce the results of the poll at the end of October.

The Verizon Wireless TXT poll is part of Liz Claiborne and Marie Claire’s Its Time to Talk Day on October 11th, a day designed to get all Americans talking about domestic violence. Around the country, media personalities, government officials, domestic violence advocates, businesses and the public-at-large will be taking a moment — or more — to talk openly about the issue of domestic violence. More information about It’s Time to Talk Day activities and how individuals, companies, organizations and schools can get involved can be found at http://www.loveisnotabuse.com

Verizon Wireless is a recognized corporate leader in the area of domestic violence prevention. The company works to prevent domestic violence and raise awareness of the issue through the company’s HopeLine program. HopeLine, currently in its 10th year, collects wireless phones and accessories from any wireless service provider, and then refurbishes the phones or recycles them in an environmentally friendly way. Proceeds from the HopeLine program benefit victims of domestic violence and non-profit advocacy agencies, providing essential communication tools of wireless phones and wireless services, and financial grants.