[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 25 (Thursday, February 25, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E250]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

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                         HON. DAVID G. REICHERT

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 25, 2010

  Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I ask that we take the time to recognize 
the importance of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. This is an 
increasingly critical issue that has a devastating effect on our 
schools, families, and most importantly the victims of this horrifying 
crime.
  The fact is that teens are at a higher risk than adults--half of 
reported date rapes occur among teenagers. Every year, nearly 1.5 
million high school students experience physical abuse from a dating 
partner.
  This violence against another human being breaks our hearts and 
should never be tolerated.
  We took an important step to help these victims with the passage of 
my Amendment 20 to H.R. 2847, which provided funding to the Supporting 
Teens through Education and Protection (STEP) program to help schools 
combat sexual harassment.
  Every young person deserves relationships based on respect, and Teen 
Dating Violence Awareness Month is a time to draw needed attention to 
this important issue. By educating our youth about the importance of 
safe and healthy relationships, raising awareness among those who care 
for them, and supporting the community services that aid victims, we 
can help to prevent this tragic cycle of abuse.

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