Supporting Stalking Victims and Survivors: Reclaim the Sparkle
January is recognized as National Stalking Awareness Month, highlighting a crime that often remains hidden. Stalking is a terrifying experience that can shatter a person’s sense of safety, even in places where they should feel most secure. Sadly, it’s more common than many realize. According to the Federal Register, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will experience stalking in their lifetime.
This year, the National Stalking Awareness Month Day of Action falls on January 18th. We invite everyone to wear something sparkly or shiny. Why sparkles? It’s a tribute to Peggy, whose life was tragically cut short by her stalker 21 years ago. Her sister, Debbie Riddle, remembers Peggy as someone who had a “sparkling personality” and could “light up a room.” But as the stalking continued, Debbie said, “We saw that shine fade.” This January 18th, let’s bring back the sparkle — for Peggy and for all victims and survivors of stalking. Join us in wearing something shiny and use the hashtags #SparkleAgainstStalking, #NSAM2025, and #NSAMDayofAction #TheBridge to show your support.
Understanding Stalking
Stalking is more than just unwanted attention. It’s a pattern of behavior intended to make someone feel afraid, intimidated, or harassed. It often includes repeated phone calls, showing up uninvited, sending unwanted gifts, or using technology to track someone’s movements. In today’s digital age, stalking has become even more pervasive with tools like GPS tracking, social media monitoring, and spyware apps.
Stalking can have devastating consequences. Beyond the immediate fear, victims often experience long-term emotional and mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. For some, like Peggy, the outcome is tragically fatal.
How You Can Help
National Stalking Awareness Month is a chance for all of us to take action. Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about stalking and share that knowledge with your friends and family. Awareness is the first step to change.
- Support Victims and Survivors: If someone confides in you about being stalked, listen without judgment. Believe them, and help them find safety resources.
- Advocate for Change: Contact your local representatives and encourage them to strengthen laws that protect stalking victims.
- Join the Day of Action: On January 18th, wear something sparkly or shiny to honor victims and survivors. Share a photo on social media with the hashtags #TheBridge, #SparkleAgainstStalking, #NSAM2025, and #NSAMDayofAction.
- Donate Time, Treasure, and Talent: Volunteer with organizations that support stalking victims, contribute financially to nonprofits or use your skills to help raise awareness and advocate for change.
Bringing Back the Sparkle
Every victim and survivor of stalking deserves to reclaim their light. By raising awareness, showing support, and taking action, we can help bring back the sparkle that stalking tries to dim. Let’s honor Peggy’s memory and stand with all who have faced this crime. Together, we can make a difference.
This January 18th, let’s shine bright. Let’s #SparkleAgainstStalking.
Resources for Victims
If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, help is available. Contact the Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC) or The Bridge 24/7 Hotline at 713-473-2801 for free, confidential support, including guidance in navigating the court system, tools for victims and safety planning. 24/7 Chat Line on tbotw.org website bottom right corner.
