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Proclamation seeks to raise public awareness of teen dating violence
The government has proclaimed February as “Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month” on Tuesday on Capital Hill, to raise the profile of a little known but emerging concern in the Commonwealth.
Lt. Gov. Ralph DLG. Torres poses with government officials, proponents, and attendees during a recent proclamation designating February as “Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month” held on Capital Hill on Tuesday. (Joel D. Pinaroc)
Nikita Cabrera, chairperson of the Family Violence Task Force, said that teen dating violence is an “ongoing issue” and it has been happening “way back before laws where even passed.”
“[Teen dating violence] has been a silent issue,” Cabrera told reporters, adding that the task force is “involving as many community members as possible.”
Cabrera said people don’t often read about cases of teen dating violence in newspapers or hear about it, but it is happening and “awareness helps us stop this.”
She said the task force hopes it will only be a matter of time before “people realize that this is not acceptable.”
Cabrera said the number of cases of teen dating violence may not be easy to come by or made public because in most cases, minors are involved.
She said the Family Violence Task Force is composed of multiple agencies, including the police, to take on the issue of violence. Depending on the age groups, the coalition might take different approaches on tackling violence, she said.
Cabrera said the Family Violence Task Force is coordinating with the Northern Marianas Coalition Against Sexual Violence, which will soon announce the activities lined up this month.
“February is just the start,” Cabrera said, adding that the coalition plans to continue doing awareness drives throughout the year.
Lt. Gov. Ralph DLG. Torres pledged the support of the government in addressing teen dating violence, adding his office is “always open” to anyone who needs help.
Torres presided over the proclamation signing on behalf of Gov. Eloy S. Inos. (Joel D. Pinaroc)
