Owensboro Innovation Middle School students placed blue pinwheels — the symbol for child abuse prevention — on the front lawn of Kentucky Wesleyan College Tuesday morning. Family Court Judges Angela Thompson and Jennifer Hendricks spoke to attendees about the issue of child abuse.
April is recognized annually as National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Thompson and Hendricks read a proclamation Tuesday recognizing the month in Daviess County.
The local proclamation noted that child abuse is one of the nation’s most serious public health issues affecting a wide range of medical, emotional, psychological and behavioral areas.
Kristy James, who helped organize the event as GRADD’s Community Collaboration for Children Coordinator, said the proclamation is important because one of the ways to prevent child abuse is by talking about it.
“Being okay with talking about it and having those difficult conversations and working together to know that we are here for the same cause, which is the safety and strengthening of children, is important,” James said.
She said getting the children involved in Tuesday’s event showcases that there are adults who want to support children who may be in a difficult situation, and that there is a space for people of all ages to discuss the impacts of abuse.
James said the morning made her emotional as she looked out and saw the children placing their pinwheels. She encourages other community members to take part in planting some as well this month.
James also noted another event at KWC this Friday at 4:30 p.m.. The annual Stand Against Child Abuse event will bring more than 50 community agencies together to provide resources to families in attendance. The event is free and open to the public.
