DRAFT PROCLAMATION FOR CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

April 1, 2026

WHEREAS, children are our nation’s most vulnerable members and our nation’s most 
valuable resources, helping to shape the future of [State or Jurisdiction]; and

WHEREAS, positive childhood experiences (PCEs) -- like loving caregivers and safe, stable, and nurturing relationships -- can help mitigate trauma and the negative impact of adverse 
childhood experiences (ACEs) to promote the social, emotional, and developmental well-being of children; and

WHEREAS, childhood trauma can have long-term psychological, emotional, and physical effects throughout an individual’s lifetime and impact future generations of their family; and

WHEREAS, childhood trauma, including abuse and neglect, is a serious problem affecting every community in the U.S., and finding solutions requires input and action from everyone; and

WHEREAS, children who live in families with access to concrete economic and social supports are less likely to experience abuse and neglect; and

WHEREAS, prevention is possible because of the partnerships created between Prevent Child Abuse-New Jersey, families, prevention advocates, child welfare professionals, education, health, community, and faith-based organizations, businesses, law enforcement agencies, service organizations including the New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs, and local, state, and national governments; and

WHEREAS, we acknowledge that to solve the public health issue of abuse and neglect we must work together to change hearts and mindsets through storytelling and sharing, center the needs of families, reduce barriers, and inspire action from partners in prevention; and

WHEREAS, we are committed to advancing responsive, and effective systems that 
ensure all children and families are healthy and thriving; and

WHEREAS, we recognize the need to prioritize kids and invest in more prevention initiatives like home visiting and family-strengthening policies, economic supports, and community-based child abuse prevention programs at the local, state, and national levels; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, _______________________, [Title and Jurisdiction], do hereby proclaim 
April as NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH in [Location] and urge all citizens to recognize this month by building a narrative of hope for children and families through 
collaboration and the creation of an ecosystem of primary prevention.