April 2022: Child Abuse Prevention Month

WHEREAS, Michigan is committed to protecting our most vulnerable and ensuring children grow up safe, healthy, educated, and prepared to reach their full potential; and,

WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect contribute to adverse childhood experiences that can have profound lifelong negative impact on lives; and,

WHEREAS, child abuse is 100% preventable and the cost of treating the impacts of child abuse is significantly higher than the cost of preventing it; and,

WHEREAS, consistent, early, and effective prevention strategies have been proven to save lives, protect resources, and strengthen and preserve Michigan's families by ending cycles of abuse and neglect; and,

WHEREAS, children raised in safe, stable, and nurturing environments are more likely to enjoy good physical and mental health, succeed academically and socially, and achieve economic prosperity; and,

WHEREAS, educating adults about how to use positive coping skills, seek options, and be flexible enables them to be stronger, more resilient individuals throughout their lives and create more stable environments and brighter futures for children; and,

WHEREAS, child abuse and neglect prevention is a community responsibility, and on behalf of Michigan’s children, we join with the Children’s Trust Fund – the state agency within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services leading the efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect through partner organizations; and,

WHEREAS, under the leadership of the Children’s Trust Fund, we assert that during April and throughout the year, we all come together against child abuse and neglect by supporting prevention programs, so every child feels safe and nurtured by making sure each family has the support and education they need; and,

WHEREAS, the blue and silver pinwheels displayed during April and throughout the year symbolize the health and happiness all children deserve; and,

WHEREAS, we live by the wisdom of Frederick Douglass, that it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken adults. Now more than ever, we must all do our part to help build strong children and give them access to safe, healthy futures;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2022 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Michigan.