3.2 Proclamation Teen Dating ViolenceTeen Dating Violence Awareness Month Proclamation
February 2022
WHEREAS, one in three adolescent in the United States is a victim of physical, emotional or verbal abuse
from a dating partner, a figure that far exceeds victimization rates for other types of violence affecting
youth; and
WHEREAS, females between the ages 16-24 are most vulnerable to intimate partner and sexual violence,
experiencing abuse at a rate almost triple the national average; and
WHEREAS, high school students who experience physical violence in a dating relationship are more likely
to use drugs and alcohol, are at greater risk of suicide and are much more likely to carry patterns of abuse
into future relationships; and
WHEREAS, young people victimized by a dating partner are more likely to engage in risky sexual
behavior and unhealthy dieting behaviors and the experience may disrupt normal development of self-
esteem and body image; and
WHEREAS, nearly half of teens who experience dating violence report that incidents of abuse took place
in a school building or on school grounds; and
WHEREAS, only 33% of teens who are in an abusive relationship ever tell anyone about the abuse, and
81 % of parents surveyed either believe teen dating violence is not an issue or admit they do not know if it is
one; and
WHEREAS, by providing young people, parents, and professionals with education about healthy
relationships, warning signs of abuse, and relationship skills and by changing attitudes that support
violence, we recognize that dating violence can be prevented; and
WHEREAS, the Domestic Violence Association of Central Kansas needs all of Salina to work toward
ending teen dating violence by empowering young people to develop healthier relationships, assisting
victims in accessing the information and supportive services they need, creating better and more resources
for young people in need, instituting effective intervention and prevention policies in schools, and engaging
in discussion with family members and peers to promote awareness and prevention of the quiet epidemic of
teen dating violence.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City of Salina Board of Commissioners hereby designates February 2022 as
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and urges citizens to recognize and assist all those who serve the
rights and needs of victims of teen dating violence.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of the City of
Salina this 14th day of February, 2022.
Trent W. Davis, M.D., Mayor