Children's Memorial Flag Encourages National, Community Attention to Violence Against Children

Child Welfare League of America
Tuesday, 27 March 2001

March 27, 2001, Washington, D.C. -- In honor and recognition of the approximately three million children who are reported abused and neglected in this country each year, and the 80,000* who die under violent and tragic circumstances, the Child Welfare League of America is launching the 2001 Children's Memorial Flag Campaign. The flag, with its silhouette of a missing child in a row of children, has become a symbol of the scandal of violence against children. It continues to be embraced by expanding circles of concerned citizens, elected officials, and activists.

During its 2001 public awareness campaign, CWLA will build upon the successes of 2000, a year in which 35 of the nation's governors participated in promoting the flag by displaying it, issuing a proclamation, or conducting a ceremony or event in April, which is Child Abuse Prevention Month. The flag was also promoted by numerous local, national, and international organizations, elected officials, schools; and social service agencies. The participation of so many children's advocates amplifies awareness about the tragedy of child abuse and victimization, as well as its causes and prevention efforts. This year, CWLA is encouraging the flying of the flag on the fourth Friday in April (April 27)- National Children's Memorial Flag Day.

Governors, mayors, and organizations are becoming involved in this effort at a record rate this year. In addition to flying or displaying the flag and issuing proclamations, many states are also planning events and ceremonies. Some states have instituted other unique observances: West Virginia is flying the flag in each of its 55 counties; Washington will fly the flag at the State Capitol and in its 6 regional Department of Social and Health Services offices; New Mexico is sending a flag on a "road show" to 15 county courthouses in addition to the State Capitol. This is in addition to the participation of hundreds of child welfare and community organizations, hospitals, and schools.

According to CWLA Executive Director Shay Bilchik, "The effects of child abuse are felt by whole communities and need to be addressed by everyone. CWLA is dedicated to bringing public awareness to the needs of our most vulnerable children- children who live in fear and are at risk for violence and even death in their own homes and communities."

The Child Welfare League of America is the nation's oldest and largest membership-based child welfare organization. It is committed to engaging people everywhere in promoting the well-being of children, youth, and their families, and protecting every child from harm.

*CORRECTION -- Originally, this release stated that "...80,000 children die each year (in the United States) under violent and tragic circumstances..." This is incorrect. The total number of deaths for children ages 0 to 18 from all causes is approximately 55,000. The number of children who die directly from abuse and neglect is approximately 1,000 per year. Additionally, approximately 18,000 youths die annually from accidents, homicides, and suicides. These figures are taken from the U.S. Government¹s National Vital Statistics Report.

For more information please visit http://www.cwla.org/advocacy/memorialflag.htm

Ten Things You Can Do To Prevent Child Abuse

1. Volunteer your time. Get involved with other parents in your community. Help vulnerable children and their families. Start a playgroup.

2. Discipline your children thoughtfully. Never discipline your child when you are upset. Give yourself time to calm down. Remember that discipline is a way to teach your child. Use privileges to encourage good behavior and time-outs to help your child regain control.

3. Examine your behavior. Abuse is not just physical. Both words and actions can inflict deep, lasting wounds. Be a nurturing parent. Use your actions to show children and other adults that conflicts can be settled without hitting or yelling.

4. Educate yourself and others. Simple support for children and parents can be the best way to prevent child abuse. After-school activities, parent education classes, mentoring programs, and respite care are some of the many ways to keep children safe from harm. Be a voice in support of these efforts in your community.

5. Teach children their rights. When children are taught they are special and have the right to be safe, they are less likely to think abuse is their fault, and more likely to report an offender.

6. Support prevention programs. Too often, intervention occurs only after abuse is reported. Greater investments are needed in programs that have been proven to stop the abuse before it occurs- such as family counseling and home visits by nurses who provide assistance for newborns and their parents.

7. Know what child abuse is. Physical and sexual abuse clearly constitute maltreatment, but so does neglect, or the failure of parents or other caregivers to provide a child with needed food, clothing, and care. Children can also be emotionally abused when they are rejected, berated, or continuously isolated.

8. Know the signs. Unexplained injuries aren't the only signs of abuse- depression, fear of a certain adult, difficulty trusting others or making friends, sudden changes in eating or sleeping patterns, inappropriate sexual behavior, poor hygiene, secrecy, and hostility are often signs of family problems and may indicate a child is being neglected or physically, sexually, or emotionally abused.

9. Report abuse. If you witness a child being harmed or see evidence of abuse, or if a child tells you about abuse, make a report to your state's child protective services department or local police. When talking to a child about abuse, listen carefully, assure the child that he or she did the right thing by telling an adult, and affirm that he or she is not responsible for what happened.

10. Invest in Kids. Encourage leaders in the community to be supportive of children and families. Ask employers to provide family-friendly work environments. Ask your local and national lawmakers to support legislation to better protect our children and to improve their lives.

For more information, or to contact Child Welfare League of America, see their website at: www.cwla.org