October is Child Abuse Prevention Month: DRESS PUPRLE FOR KIDS ON OCTOBER 24

On Tuesday, October 24 everyone is invited to DRESS PURPLE in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month. 

“We are especially honoured to be partnering with both the Durham Catholic and the Durham District school boards this year,” says Wanda Secord, Executive Director, Durham CAS. “Our community’s educators play a crucial role in protecting and nurturing children and youth every day. Having their support in this campaign speaks volumes about their ongoing commitment to the well-being of children, youth and families.” 

Schools across Ontario have be participating in the campaign by sharing information with their students and families, incorporating resource materials in their curriculum and joining the campaign online. 

Many will be participating in DRESS PURPLE DAY. Staff and students will be wearing purple and sharing their stories and photographs on social media, using the hashtag #IBreaktheSilence.

“We proudly wear a purple ribbon today to acknowledge Child Abuse Prevention Month. Wearing our ribbons reminds us of the existence of child abuse and the responsibility everyone has to protect our community’s children,” stated Lisa Millar, Director of Education at the Durham District School Board. 

“At the Durham Catholic District School Board, we believe that all students should have an opportunity to succeed at school,” said Anne O’Brien, Director of Education. “By joining the campaign for Child Abuse Prevention Month and partnering with the Durham Children’s Aid Society, our Board remains committed to promoting the well-being of all children and youth.  Together with our community partners, we can work to ensure that the physical, social, and emotional needs of all children and youth are met.” 

In addition to the education sector being an important partner in the campaign, they are a crucial partner daily in chid protection. Those who work in education are responsible for approximately 20 percent of referrals made to Durham CAS – the highest referral source. 

Everyone – local businesses, organizations and individuals – are also invited to participate. Contact Durham CAS for information or for purple ribbons. You can participate by wearing purple, sharing information and photos, and connecting on social media. 

Collectively, our voices can ensure that everyone knows about their role in protecting and nurturing children and youth in our community. 

Background: 

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Purple Ribbon, which began in Durham Region. Durham Children’s Aid Society introduced the ribbon in 1992 to symbolize the month-long campaign. Over the years, the purple ribbon has been adopted by organizations across Canada. 

Purple ribbons help raise awareness about the issue of child abuse, and the need for everyone to play a part in protecting our community’s children. Durham CAS encourages all individuals to get involved and consider their role in supporting the safety and well-being of children and youth in our community.  

For more information, visit durhamcas.ca