[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 129, 114th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9231 of January 30, 2015

National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

In a Nation invested in the limitless possibility of every child, ending
dating violence is an urgent priority. Each year, an estimated 1 in 10
American teenagers is physically hurt on purpose by a boyfriend or
girlfriend. This behavior violates our most basic values and can have
profound consequences for survivors. Young people who experience dating
violence are at increased risk of substance abuse, depression, poor
academic performance, and future victimization. This month, we join with
all those who have endured the pain of an unhealthy relationship and
acknowledge the responsibility we each have to end this cycle of fear,
isolation, and abuse.
Dating violence often involves the use of inappropriate actions to
control a partner or resolve conflicts. These behaviors can be physical,
emotional, or sexual, and can take place in person or with the use of
technology and social media. Unhealthy relationships can affect people
of all ages, and many teenagers do not recognize the severity of dating
abuse, or they do not report it because they are afraid or ashamed to
speak up. That is why it is important to talk with friends and loved
ones about dating violence and to learn the warning signs of an
unhealthy relationship, including extreme jealousy, constant monitoring,
and possessiveness.
If you are in--or know someone who is in--an abusive relationship, the
National Dating Abuse Helpline can offer immediate and confidential
support. To contact the Helpline, call 1-866-331-9474, text ``loveis''
to 22522, or visit LoveIsRespect.org. For more information on dating
violence, visit VetoViolence.CDC.gov.
It is on all of us to reject the quiet tolerance of sexual assault, and
the Federal Government is committed to being part of the solution. Last
year, I established the White House Task Force to Protect Students from
Sexual Assault and directed its members to consider how their
recommendations could apply to our Nation's elementary and sec

[[Page 3285]]

ondary schools. In addition, as part of Vice President Joe Biden's
1is2many initiative, my Administration is working to provide teenagers
and their communities with the resources and support they need, so our
young people can pursue their dreams free from fear. As we strive to
eliminate teen dating violence, we are focused on bolstering prevention
efforts and improving our response in order to protect those at risk and
ensure survivors can access the help they need.
Healthy relationships are built on respect, trust, and equality. Our
commitment to these values demands that we stand up against dating abuse
and all forms of intimate partner violence. During National Teen Dating
Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, we are called to act. Let us
recommit to fostering a society where our strength is measured by our
resolve to speak out against this outrage, and where there are no
barriers that prevent our daughters and sons from achieving their full
potential.
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 February 2015 as
National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. I call
upon all Americans to support efforts in their communities and schools,
and in their own families, to empower young people to develop healthy
relationships throughout their lives and to engage in activities that
prevent and respond to teen dating violence.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
January, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
ninth.
BARACK OBAMA