April: National Child Abuse Prevention Month

It began as one week. Designated as the first National Child Abuse Awareness Week, June 6^th- 12^th, 1982 was observed with programs, ceremonies, and activities. It was the hope of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives that this week would raise awareness about the growing problem of child abuse.

The following year the focus expanded from awareness to prevention. President Ronald Regan announced April of 1983 as the first National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This year marks its 25th Anniversary.

Each year, the Office on Child Abuse and Neglect, located within the Children's Bureau, coordinates the month. According to their site, approximately 905,000 children were abuse or neglected in 2006. A new report from Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA) places the financial costs of child abuse and neglect at almost $104 billion for 2007.

The Office on Child Abuse and Neglect not only releases the updated national statistics on child abuse and neglect. The office provides important information on family strengthening and parent training, in an effort to prevent abuse.

The Blue Ribbon

National Child Abuse Prevention Month is known for its blue ribbon, a practice that started in Norfolk, Virginia.

The Blue Ribbon Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse began with a grandmother. Bonnie Finney, living in Virginia at the time, was known for driving around with a blue ribbon attached to the antenna of her van. The ribbon was displayed as a tribute to her grandson, Michael Dickenson, who had died as a result of abuse.

In a letter Finney, explains the circumstances surrounding her grandson's death and why she chose the color blue. She states, "Why the color blue? I never intend to forget the battered, bruised bodies of my grandchildren... Therefore, blue serves as a constant reminder to me to fight for our children." You can read the rest of her letter here.

Since then, the Blue Ribbon Campaign has spread throughout the country. Not only do many Americans wear ribbons, but organizations and communities across the country are honored as being "blue ribbon", for their contributions toward helping end abuse.

If you want to support this cause, you can purchase a blue ribbon from the National Exchange Club. You can also purchase shirts, car magnets, and flags.

Please remember to get involved in your local Child Abuse Prevention Month's festivities. If you suspect child abuse, contact your local Child Protective Services Department. For crisis counseling, call ChildHelp at 1-800-4-A-CHILD. As stated by Child Welfare, "Today, the Child Abuse Prevention Initiative is an opportunity for communities across the country to keep children safe..."

References:

Child Welfare Information Gateway
Children's Bureau Express