[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 

PROCLAMATION 8791--APR. 2, 2012

Proclamation 8791 of April 2, 2012

National Child Abuse Prevention Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

As parents, as communities, and as a Nation, the work of raising our
children stands among our greatest responsibilities and our most
profound blessings. The support we give and the examples we set form
cornerstones for their success, and by teaching our children to trust in
themselves, we equip them with confidence, hope, and determination that
can last a lifetime. Tragically, neglect and abuse erode this
fundamental promise for too many young Americans. During National Child
Abuse Prevention Month, we renew our commitment to break the cycle of
violence, strengthen support for all who have been affected, and empower
our young people with the best we have to offer.
Over half a million American children suffer neglect or abuse every
year. A strong and well-informed family unit is the surest defense
against child abuse, and parents and caregivers who have support--from
relatives, friends, neighbors, and their communities--are more likely to
provide safe and healthy homes for their children. Trusted friends and
active community members can help ensure families get the support they
need by offering their time and resources, taking an active role in
children's lives, and fostering a safe environment for young people to
learn and grow. By coming together in service to our communities, we do
more to meet our obligation to do right by the next generation.
My Administration continues to prioritize the health and well-being of
children across our country. With partners at every level of government


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and throughout the private sector, we are supporting services that
protect young Americans from abuse and neglect and extend help to those
who have been affected. We are investing in early learning programs and
supporting initiatives that promote positive outcomes for children and
families. And we are connecting parents and professionals to new tools
to identify, treat, and prevent abuse. I encourage all Americans to
learn more about what they can do at: www.ChildWelfare.gov/Preventing.
Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up with the promise and
protection of a loving family. This month, we recommit to that vision,
and to providing care, stability, and a brighter future for our sons and
daughters.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2012 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 second day of
April, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
sixth.
BARACK OBAMA