STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

Whereas, our children represent our greatest hope for the future and New York State remains steadfast in its commitment to the safety and security of our children, families and communities; and

Whereas, of paramount concern to all New Yorkers are the problems of child abuse, neglect and maltreatment, which endanger vulnerable young lives and cause long-lasting damage to a child’s physical, emotional and cognitive well-being; and

Whereas, the prevention of child abuse, neglect and maltreatment requires strong partnerships and cooperation among individual citizens, organizations, law enforcement and government agencies at the community, state and federal levels; and

Whereas, a leading cause of abuse-related death among children is head trauma, including a fully preventable form of abusive behavior known as Shaken Baby Syndrome, which occurs when a caregiver loses control and forcefully shakes a baby or young child, possibly resulting in a loss of vision, brain damage, paralysis, seizures, or death; and

Whereas, there are education and prevention programs that address all categories of child abuse and people in communities across New York State are encouraged to support such efforts that promote a safe and nurturing environment for children and families; and

Whereas, citizens should be vigilant and fervent in their efforts to stop child abuse and are asked to call the State Central Register for Child Abuse and Maltreatment at 1-800-342-3720 to report suspected abuse or neglect; and

Whereas, New York State does not tolerate acts of violence against children and continuously strives to enact tougher laws to protect children from abuse, neglect and maltreatment; all citizens are reminded of the many forms of abuse that occur in our society, with greatest concern for the threat of harm to our precious children;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim April 2008 as

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

in the Empire State.

Given under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this second day of April in the year two thousand eight.

David A. Paterson
Governor