Proclamation #4 – Recognition Of Teen Dating Violence Prevention And Awareness Month

Whereas, dating violence is a pattern of abusive an.d aggressive behaviors used to exert power and control over a dating partner; and

Whereas, in 2021, according to the Center for Disease Control’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 5.6% of Delaware high school students reported that they suffered physical violence by a dating partner, and 6.9% reported that they experienced sexual violence by a dating partner; and

Whereas, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students experience dating violence at higher rates than their peers and face more obstacles to seeking help; and

Whereas, raising awareness and providing resources for prevention and intervention are critical to ensuring the safety and well-being ofyoung people; and

Whereas, as part of the awareness efforts, the state is proud to recognize the advocacy of Madalin Sanchez and Jhamiya Alexis, winners of the Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month Poster Contest; and

Whereas, in addition to awareness, multi-layered prevention strategies that address risk and protective factors are critical to reducing teen dating violence, changing community attitudes that support violence, and preventing the long-term effects of victimization for individuals and communities; and

Whereas, the State of Delaware is committed to preventing dating violence, supporting survivors, and empowering young people to develop healthy relationships.

Now, Therefore, I, Matthew Meyer, Governor,
do hereby declare February 2025, as

DATING VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND AWARENESS MONTH

in the State of Delaware, and urge all Delawareans to support efforts in their schools and communities to empower young people and prevent dating violence.