Mystery Solved: The Meaning of a Purple Light on a Porch in Maine

Colors have meaning. Even though that has been the case for the majority of human history, it seems like it is even more true these days.

A green light on your porch is a symbol of support for our military veterans. A teal pumpkin indicates a trick-or-treater has food allergies. Pink generally indicates support for those dealing with breast cancer. A red light means... Well, that's a discussion for another time.

But, what does a purple light on a porch indicate?

Considering they are often seen around the month of October, there is a good chance you may think they have something to do with Halloween. That could not be farther from the truth.

The Meaning of a Purple Light on a Porch

According to an article on the Parade website, the true meaning behind a purple light is awareness of domestic violence.

While domestic violence survivors will often shine a purple light, it is just as likely that the light could be on because the homeowner is an ally of those who have been the victims of domestic violence.

Purple is one of the colors most associated with domestic violence. Why purple?

According to the article:

the reason purple was chosen as the color for domestic violence awareness is because it's the color of royalty and it became the symbolic color for women’s suffrage in the early 1900s.

The idea of shining a purple light on your porch to raise awareness about domestic violence dates back to the early 2000s. The practice was started by two Covington, Washington women who wanted to raise awareness about domestic violence, according to Parade. The first "Purple Light Nights" took place in 2006.

Since then, the practice has spread across the country and even occurs in Canada.