Whereas, Every 5 minutes a child in Michigan is reported as a victim of child abuse and neglect and over two-thirds of these victims are our most vulnerable populations, young children age six and under; and,

Whereas, During periods of economic downturns, families are much more vulnerable and the incidence of abuse increases across all segments of our society with risk factors greater in families where the parent abuses alcohol or drugs, is isolated from their families or communities, has difficulty controlling anger or stress, appears uninterested in the care, nourishment or safety of their children, and/or seems to be having serious economic, housing, or personal problems; and,

Whereas, Child abuse is considered to be one of our nation’s most serious public health problems with scientific studies documenting the link between the abuse and neglect of children and a wide range of medical, emotional, psychological, and behavioral disorders such as depression, alcoholism, drug abuse, severe obesity, juvenile delinquency, and the need for special education services; and,

Whereas, Warning signs that a child might be abused or neglected include nervousness around adults, aggression toward children or adults, inability to stay awake or concentrate for long periods, sudden dramatic changes in personality or activities, acting out sexually or showing interest in sex that is not age-appropriate, frequent or unexplained bruises or injuries, low self-esteem, and poor hygiene; and,

Whereas, We hold scared the trust of our nation’s most valuable resource, our children; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2006, as Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to join me in dedicating their energies to cherishing Michigan’s children and helping them grow and develop free from physical, emotional, and sexual harm.