HYANNIS – February is nationally recognized as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
The goal it talk about and take action against the level of dating violence among adolescents. Statistics show that 1.5 million high school students are victims of physical abuse from a dating partner yearly.
One in 3 is a victim of physical, sexual, verbal or emotional abuse.
Independence House, Cape Cod’s leading resource, counselling and advocacy center dealing with sexual and domestic physical abuse, is seeking teens to participate in their 3rd annual art contest.
It’s geared toward stopping violence among their peers by bringing awareness and dialog regarding healthy relationships. .
Chris Morin, Independent House’s Director of Prevention, Education and Outreach, said the type of submission is wide open and that the contest will culminate in a fun event.
“It’s any form of art from painting to writing to dance or theater. We’ll celebrate the contest on February 15th by having a program at the Double Tree,” she said.
It will start at 6:00, is open to the public, and will feature guest speakers, refreshments and surprises, as well as the winners being announced.
Officials hope students will find some of their inspiration from a pledge titled “We are the change”.
Morin spoke about how important it is to reach this age group. “Our youth are leaders of the future, and if we can really concentrate on what a healthy relationship is, what respect is, hopefully we’ll have leaders that will lead in a better way.”
Information about the pledge, rules, how to submit art and much more is available at the Independence House teen website, IHteens.org.
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