New York State Executive Chamber | Governor Eliot Spitzer

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Proclamation

Whereas, of paramount concern to all New Yorkers is the health, well-being and development of our children - truly our most precious resource and hope for the future - and New York State is steadfast in its dedication to protecting our children in light of the fact that a leading cause of death and injury among children is abuse; and

Whereas, our youth are the leaders of tomorrow and we all share a moral responsibility to report known or suspected acts of child abuse, neglect and maltreatment to the proper authorities, and communities throughout our State are urged to support initiatives that raise awareness of the problem of child abuse and that promote a safe and nurturing environment for children; and

Whereas, approximately 3 million children are reported abused and neglected in this country each year and the devastating impact of child abuse is felt by whole communities and must be addressed by our entire society; and

Whereas, the prevention of child abuse, neglect and maltreatment calls for effective partnerships and efficient cooperation among individual citizens, organizations, law enforcement, our court system, healthcare professionals and government agencies at the community, state and federal levels; and

Whereas, strong community-based partnerships can heighten awareness of child abuse and restore hope to the lives of victims of abuse while keeping these children safe, and we applaud child care agencies and family support programs that give attention to the unique and special needs of abused children and are staunch leaders in areas that have a positive impact upon victims of abuse and neglect, by providing health programs and services; and

Whereas, it is imperative that we continuously work to improve and enhance measures of protection as well as services for our children, as in recent years calls from the public for tougher laws and more effective programs to combat child abuse have been overwhelming; and

Whereas, all citizens should be concerned for the health, safety and welfare of our children and, furthermore, remain steadfast in their efforts to prevent the occurrence of child abuse, always reminding parents within their communities to provide their children with a safe, nurturing environment so they can grow into productive adults and enjoy long and fulfilling lives;

Now, Therefore, I, Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby recognize December 2007 as Month of the Child in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twenty-ninth day of November in the year two thousand seven.

Eliot Spitzer, Governor

Richard Baum, Secretary to the Governor