04/05 - Sexual Assault Awareness MonthPROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, during their lifetime, an estimate 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will experience asexual assault before reaching
the age of 18; and
WHEREAS, sexual violence against children in rural communities exists as a hidden, silent and often unrecognized reality
that may not be reported to authorities or is under -reported; and
WHEREAS, sexual violence against children is most often perpetrated by a family member or family friend, someone who
is known by the victim and often trusted; and
WHEREAS, every child is entitled to be loved, cared for, nurtured, feel secure, and be free from sexual abuse and incest;
and
WHEREAS, we need to challenge the assumptions made about sexual violence against children, become pro -active in
preventing child sexual abuse and hold offenders accountable; and
WHEREAS, our communities are stronger when all citizens become aware of child sexual abuse prevention and become
involved in supporting parents to raise their children in a safe and nurturing environment; and
WHEREAS, Violence Free Crisis Litre and other agencies, organizations and state coalitions across Montana and the nation,
are committed to preventing sexual violence against children by promoting prevention awareness campaigns, educating the
community and advocating for victims' rights;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Pamela B. Kennedy, Mayor of the City of Kalispell, Flathead County, Montana, do hereby
proclaim April, 2005 as
SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH IN THE CITY
DATED this 5th day of April, 2005
Pamela B.