2023-02-07 IV. C. Nat'l Teen Dating Violence & Prevention Awareness Proclamation .
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Office of the Mayor
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1 Okeechobee, Florida .1
WHEREAS, during National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, we stand with those who
have known the pain and isolation of an abusive relationship and endeavor to end the cycle of teen dating
violence that affects too many of our young people; and � `
WHEREAS, teen dating violence takes many forms including physical or sexual assault, stalking, coercive and g
controlling behavior, emotional abuse, harassment, and exploitation. It can occur in person, online, or
through various forms of technology. Research shows that more than eight percent of high school students ,
in the United States reported experiencing physical or sexual dating violence over the course of a one-year
period with young women and LGBTQI+ youth facing the highest rates. Survivors of teen dating violence can r
suffer from depression, substance abuse, risk of suicide, eating disorders, poor academic outcomes,
unintended pregnancy, and other issues. Sadly, survivors of teenage dating violence are more likely to be
revictimized as adults. These effects are compounded for girls and young women of color, who are less often y.
recognized as survivors of dating and sexual violence and face additional barriers to seeking help; and 1
WHEREAS, Martha's House is committed to supporting programs that are proven to help preteens and teens
develop safe and healthy relationships. Martha's House has a range of resources to equip communities with
effective tools to prevent and address teen dating violence. These tools will help teens stay safe online and
° when they use electronic devices; and respond effectively to dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and
other forms of abuse; and provide resources and training programs that prevent abuse and promote healthy .A.'
relationships; and ,-,
WHEREAS, during National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, we recommit ourselves to j
ending this scourge of our society and providing our young people every chance to live the fulfilling and
productive lives they deserve.
NOW THEREFORE, I, DowlingR. Watford, Jr., byvirtue of the authorityvested in me as Mayor of the City of
Okeechobee, Florida, do hereby proclaim February 2023, as "National Teen Dating Violence Awareness
and Prevention Month," and I do further call upon all citizens to educate themselves and others about teen ill
dating violence so that together we can stop it.
In witness whereof, on February 7, 2023, I have r 0 ,..
set my hand and caused this seal to be affixed.
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1, D• owling R. Watford, Jr., Mayor 'i,
Attest: '-$i' Vik /M-1-t- ----
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Lane Gamiote , CMC, City Clerk
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