Join the effort against teen dating violence

The majority of this country sees Valentine’s Day as an excuse to demonstrate their devotion to those they love. However, this February I am dedicating my time and energy to helping raise awareness about the relationships that may need the most help: those of our children. Teen Dating Violence and Awareness Week, Feb. 2-6, helps bring attention to an overlooked national problem among our youth — one that without the help of parents, educators and policy makers may continue to grow.

According to a 2008 survey, sponsored by Liz Claiborne Inc., nearly half of teen girls who have been in a relationship say they have been victims of verbal, physical, or sexual abuse by their boyfriends. Even more alarming is the fact that this abuse is starting in tweens (11- to 14-year-olds.) Recognizing the need for education policies addressing teen dating violence and abuse, Liz Claiborne Inc., along with the help of state attorneys general, members of the National Foundation of Women Legislators, additional state government officials, Redbook magazine and parents are launching a movement to ensure that all teens are educated about teen dating violence and abuse.

Moms and Dads for Education to Stop Teen Dating Abuse (MADE), is a nationwide coalition of parents, teachers and concerned citizens advocating legislation in every state to ensure that middle and high schools across the country are teaching curricula that enable students to identify and prevent dating relationship violence and abuse.

I am a MADE member, and hope you will join me, along with thousands across the country, to help protect our youth from abusive relationships. Now is your chance to take action. Join the MADE coalition at www.loveisnotabuse.com/made and ensure that curriculum on teen dating abuse education is introduced in all schools.

DEL GLICK-KAY

Sandpoint