National Stalking Awareness Month is an annual call to action to recognize and respond to the serious crime of stalking. It is critical to recognize stalking as its own form of gender-based violence as well as a crime that frequently predicts and co-occurs with physical and sexual violence.  

National Stalking Awareness Month Action Guide (2022)

It is especially important during this pandemic to be aware of stalking. The COVID-19 crisis had created new consequences for victims and reversed gains made by stalking victims, isolating some in their homes making their whereabouts easier to monitor. Stalking behavior has not ceased as a result of the COVID-19 restrictions and the risk of harm to victims remains significant. Effective practice, policy and legal responses are required for both the victims and perpetrators of stalking during the pandemic and afterwards. 

The Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants provides funding and support to community-based organizations that provide services for victims of stalking and promote awareness of available resources. If you or someone you know are in need of victim services, please contact the DC Victim Hotline.