House Joint Resolution 1055, sponsored by Whitson, commemorates April 2024 as Child Abuse Awareness Month in Tennessee. The resolution emphasizes the importance of children as vital resources for the future and highlights the serious issues of child abuse and neglect that affect all segments of the community. It acknowledges the long-term psychological, emotional, and physical consequences of child abuse and stresses the need for protective factors that promote the well-being of children.
The resolution calls for collective action from various sectors, including child welfare professionals, educational institutions, health organizations, businesses, law enforcement, and families, to create strong and thriving environments for children. It encourages communities to increase awareness about child abuse and to work together to foster safe, stable, and nurturing conditions for children and families. The resolution concludes with a formal declaration of support for Child Abuse Awareness Month.