[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 23 (Friday, February 3, 2012)]
[Presidential Documents]
[Pages 5377-5378]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-2634]
Presidential Documents
Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 23 / Friday, February 3, 2012 /
Presidential Documents
[[Page 5377]]
Proclamation 8777 of January 31, 2012
National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and
Prevention Month, 2012
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
In America, an alarming number of young people
experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse as part
of a controlling or violent dating relationship. The
consequences of dating violence--spanning impaired
development to physical harm--pose a threat to the
health and well-being of teens across our Nation, and
it is essential we come together to break the cycle of
violence that burdens too many of our sons and
daughters. This month, we recommit to providing
critical support and services for victims of dating
violence and empowering teens with the tools to
cultivate healthy, respectful relationships.
Though we have made substantial progress in the fight
to reduce violence against women, dating violence
remains a reality for millions of young people. In a 12
month period, one in 10 high school students nationwide
reported they were physically hurt on purpose by their
boyfriend or girlfriend, and still more experienced
verbal or emotional abuse like shaming, bullying, or
threats. Depression, substance abuse, and health
complications are among the long-term impacts that may
follow in the wake of an abusive relationship.
Tragically, dating violence can also lead to other
forms of violence, including sexual assault. These
outcomes are unacceptable, and we must do more to
prevent dating violence and ensure the health and
safety of our Nation's youth.
The path toward a future free of dating violence begins
with awareness. As part of my Administration's ongoing
commitment to engaging individuals and communities in
this important work, Vice President Joe Biden launched
the 1is2many initiative last September. In concert with
awareness programs occurring across Federal agencies,
the initiative calls on young men and women to take
action against dating violence and sexual assault and
help advance public understanding of the realities of
abuse. The National Dating Abuse Helpline offers
information and support to individuals struggling with
unhealthy relationships. For immediate and confidential
advice and referrals, I encourage concerned teens and
their loved ones to contact the Helpline at 1-866-331-
9474, text ``loveis'' to 77054, or visit:
www.LoveIsRespect.org. Additional resources are
available at: www.CDC.gov/features/datingviolence.
My Administration continues to promote new and proven
strategies to target teen dating violence. Last
November, we announced the winners of the Apps Against
Abuse technology challenge, concluding a national
competition to develop innovative new tools that will
empower young Americans and help prevent dating
violence and sexual assault. As we move forward, we
will continue to collaborate with both public and
private partners to bring new violence prevention
strategies to individuals and communities across our
Nation. To learn more, visit: www.WhiteHouse.gov/1is2many 1is2many.
Reducing violence against teens and young adults is an
important task for all of us. This month, we renew our
commitment to breaking the silence
[[Page 5378]]
about dating abuse and fostering a culture of respect
in our neighborhoods, our schools, and our homes.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim February 2012 as
National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention
Month. I call upon all Americans to support efforts in
their communities and schools, and in their own
families, to empower young people to develop healthy
relationships throughout their lives and to engage in
activities that prevent and respond to teen dating
violence.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirty-first day of January, in the year of our Lord
two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
(Presidential Sig.)
[FR Doc. 2012-2634
Filed 2-2-12; 8:45 am]
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