R 065

2017 -- H 5528 Enacted 02/15/2017

H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY, 2017, AS "TEEN DATING VIOLENCE PREVENTION MONTH"

Introduced By: Representatives Ackerman, McEntee, Casimiro, Fogarty, and Carson

Date Introduced: February 15, 2017

WHEREAS, One in four Rhode Islanders report being the victim of verbal, physical,

emotional, or sexual violence by a partner, and nearly one in ten Rhode Island High School

students has already experienced physical dating violence; and

WHEREAS, National statistics show that most victims first experience dating violence

between the ages of 11 through 24; and

WHEREAS, Teens who are victims of dating violence are at higher risk for underage

drinking, drug abuse, attempted suicide, eating disorders, and bullying; and

WHEREAS, Adolescents who have experienced or are in controlling or violent

relationships may carry these dangerous and unhealthy patterns into their future relationships; and

WHEREAS, There are currently teens in every Rhode Island community who have or

will experience dating violence, but they are often afraid to discuss or report it, or may not even

recognize that they are in an abusive relationship; and

WHEREAS, Parents and other adults can also be uncomfortable acknowledging or may

be unaware that a young person is or has experienced abuse; and

WHEREAS, Rhode Island teens who are victims of dating violence, as well as parents,

teachers, and others, can learn more about the problem, including warning signs, types of abuse,

and available resources to help young people; and

WHEREAS, In addition, adults can model respectful behavior and open communication,

and can promote healthy relationships; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting that this House recognizes and promotes programs and

organizations that strive to protect and educate our state's youth; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and

Providence Plantations hereby proclaims the month of February, 2017, as " Teen Dating Violence

& Prevention Month." We furthermore join the RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence in

urging all Rhode Islanders to support efforts in their communities, schools, and within their

families to empower young people to prevent and respond to teen dating violence; and be it

further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of state be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Deborah DeBare, Executive Director, RI

Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

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LC001430

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