    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8490--APR. 1, 2010

    [[Page 4603]]

    Proclamation 8490 of April 1, 2010
    National Child Abuse Prevention Month, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Our children are our most valuable resource, and they need our support
    to thrive and grow into healthy, productive adults. During National
    Child Abuse Prevention Month, we renew our unwavering commitment to
    protecting children and responding to child abuse, promoting healthy
    families, and building a brighter future for all Americans.
    Every child deserves a nurturing family and a safe environment, free
    from fear, abuse, and neglect. Tragically, sexual, emotional, and
    physical abuse threaten too many children every day in communities
    across our Nation. Parents, guardians, relatives, and neighbors all
    share a responsibility to prevent these devastating crimes, and our
    government plays a critical role as well.
    My Administration is committed to helping future generations succeed. We
    are focused on engaging parents in their children's early learning and
    development, ensuring the safety and well-being of all families, and
    creating opportunities for all Americans. We are also partnering with
    Federal, State, and local agencies to better coordinate early childhood
    services and improve the lives of young children and their families.
    Together, we can ensure that every child grows up in a safe, stable, and
    nurturing environment, free from abuse and neglect. I encourage all
    Americans to visit: www.ChildWelfare.gov/Preventing to learn what they
    can do to stop child abuse in their communities.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2010 as National
    Child Abuse Prevention Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this
    month with programs and activities that help prevent child abuse and
    provide for children's physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April,
    in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the
    United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA