Title
To declare February 2013 to be Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month in Columbus, and to raise awareness and show support for the numerous organizations and individuals who provide critical services for the victims of dating violence.
Body
WHEREAS, teen dating violence involves physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, economic and other abusive behavior committed by a person intending to harm, threaten, intimidate, harass, control, isolate or monitor another person with whom they have or have had a dating relationship; and
WHEREAS, one in three young people in the United States are affected by dating violence, with one in five in a serious relationship reporting having been slapped, pushed, hit, threatened, or coerced by a partner; and
WHEREAS, by providing young people with education about healthy relationships, building relationship skills, and by changing attitudes that support violence, we recognize that dating violence can be prevented; and
WHEREAS, it is essential to raise awareness among communities and to provide training for teachers, counselors, and school staff so that they may recognize when youth are exhibiting signs of dating violence;
WHEREAS, Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month provides an excellent opportunity for residents to learn more about preventing dating violence, and to show support for the numerous organizations and individuals who provide critical advocacy, services, and assistance to victims; and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council hereby declares that February 2013 is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month in Columbus, and reaffirms the city's commitment to empower young people to develop healthy relationships throughout their lives and to engage in activities that prevent and respond to teen dating violence.