April marks Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time dedicated to bringing attention to one of the most heartbreaking and urgent issues in our communities.
While many of us may prefer to think of childhood as a time of safety, innocence and love, the reality is that far too many children suffer in silence— victims of abuse that robs them of their sense of security and self-worth.
Child abuse takes many forms—physical, emotional, sexual and neglect. It occurs in every community, across all income levels, races and backgrounds.
One in four girls is sexually abused before their 18th birthday‚ and one in six boys.
These numbers represent more than statistics—they represent real children, with real pain and real lives that are often permanently altered.
And, most often, children are abused by someone they know and trust. It’s not the a stranger cutting in the screen door in the middle of the night.
It’s often a family member or trusted family friend.
Raising awareness is not just about shining a spotlight on the problem. It’s about educating ourselves and others on the signs of abuse, the ways to intervene and how to support survivors.
Children rarely speak out on their own. Fear, shame, confusion and even misplaced loyalty to their abusers can keep them silent. That’s why the role of adults is so critical.
Teachers, neighbors, coaches family members—we all have a part to play in protecting the vulnerable.
Prevention starts with awareness. It starts with recognizing that child abuse isn’t someone else’s problem. It’s a societal issue that affects us all.
Abuse in childhood often leads to long-term mental health challenges, struggles with addiction, difficulty in school and relationships and an increased risk of perpetuating the cycle of abuse.
Breaking that cycle requires early intervention and support systems that empower both children and their caregivers.
This month— and every month -- let’s commit to learning the warning signs:
• Sudden changes in behavior.
• Unexplained injuries.
• Fearfulness.
• Withdrawal or regression.
Let’s support the organizations doing the hard work. Here at home, chief among these is the Grayson County Children’s Advocacy Center.
They provide invaluable resources to children and families right here in Grayson County.
Let’s use our voices to advocate for policies that protect children and provide resources for families in crisis.
Most importantly, let’s remind survivors that they are not alone. That healing is possible. That their story matters.
Child Abuse Awareness Month is a call to action. A reminder that we can, and must, do better.
By coming together, we can create a world where children are safe, cherished and given the chance to grow into their fullest potential.
Let’s be the adults that children can trust. Let’s be the change they need.
Austin Lewter is the owner and publisher of the Whitesboro News-Record and director of the Texas Center for Community Journalism. He can be reached at [email protected].
