Blue ribbon campaign to increase child abuse awareness
Erick Rommel
Head Staff Writer
Parishes across the diocese are working together and with the state to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month in April.
It’s “a time for us to continue to show the Diocese of Metuchen’s commitment for the protection and care of our children,” explained Lawrence V. Nagel, director, diocesan Office of Child and Youth Protection, in a letter sent to all pastors.
“Everyone should know the signs and symptoms of child abuse,” agreed Dr. Mary Kay Cullinan, director, diocesan Office of Religious Education.
To help increase that awareness, parishes are being asked to participate in the Blue Ribbon Campaign 2005, coordinated by Prevent Child Abuse - New Jersey, an affiliate of Prevent Child Abuse America. The campaign provides blue ribbons for people to wear as a constant reminder for the need to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect, and to encourage prevention efforts.
The Blue Ribbon Campaign began in 1989 in Virginia when Bonney Finney tied blue ribbons to her house and car in remembrance of her grandson killed by child abuse.
“The blue ribbons serve as a constant reminder . . . to fight for protection for our children,” she said.“We must protect our most precious gift of all . . . our children.”
In New Jersey, 40,000 cases of abuse or neglect are reported every year, with the state spending more than $500 million for investigation and treatment.
Parish catechetical leaders are being asked to lead the diocesan effort to raise awareness. “It would be great at the parish level if kids could put ribbons together and hand them out after Mass,” Dr. Cullinan said. “Our goal is to make sure everyone is aware of what the ribbon symbolizes and that everyone who wants one gets one.”
“Please wear a blue ribbon,” Finney said. “Put one on your car. Give one to your friends. Tell them what it means. You may save a child’s life!”
Blue ribbon materials are available at no cost by contacting Prevent Child Abuse–New Jersey at(800)CHILDREN,or www.PreventChildAbuseNJ.org. A link for the application to receive ribbon materials is also available on the diocesan website.
*The attached/referenced article was originally published in The Catholic Spirit, the official newspaper of the Diocese of Metuchen, and is protected under U.S. and international copyright law