Lori Lumsden, executive director, Children’s Advocacy Center of Cherokee County, shared these figures during a recent proclamation ceremony recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. The pro-clamation was signed by Cedar Bluff Mayor Bob Davis, Centre Mayor Phil Powell, Cherokee County Probate Judge Phillip Jordan, Gaylesville Town Representative Jean Watwood, Leesburg Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Ford and Sand Rock Mayor Kenny Beck. The ceremony was held at the CACCC office, located at 203 North River St. in Centre.
“It has become a tradition for us at the Advocacy Center to gather together to proclaim April as child Abuse Prevention Month,” said Lumsden. “Several years ago we met at Judge Jordan’s office and had a proclamation signed there. But for the last two years, we’ve tried to include all of the towns and include the entire county, because we know that child abuse doesn’t only effect children in Centre, but it affects children in Gaylesville, Sand Rock, Leesburg and Spring Garden. It affects children of all different races, economic status, we know that it is a problem here in our community.”
On behalf of the CACCC, Lumsden extended her appreciation to the district attorney’s office, law enforcement personnel, the Cherokee County School System and others who have supported the Advocacy Center over the years.
Dekalb and Cherokee Counties combined, said DA Mike O’Dell, have prosecuted 299 out of 300 sexual abuse cases over the years, noting that no other advocacy center in the state comes close to matching that record.
“Child abuse requires the highest priority for all of us, including law enforcement, DHR personnel and my office as well,” said O’Dell. “And that is exactly why the advocacy center was formed. Often described as a secret crime, child abuse has in the past destroyed the lives of our child victims as well as their families. Sexual abuse of a child can have long-term and lasting effects. The wounds of the heart stay on forever. Counseling and therapy are very often necessary to help the children cope and without such help, many children carry those scars into their adulthood. And as we have so often seen, this makes it impossible for them to live normal, healthy lives and have families of their own. Many times, the perpetrator is either a family member or close family friend. As a result of that, the children are often told not to disclose the abuse. They are discouraged by family members because they want the families to stay together. And that shame follows them throughout their lifetime. And the burden often falls on child victims of abuse. How many of you have ever been a witness in a trial? Multiply that 1,000 times and you see what our children go through.”
O’Dell encouraged those present to continue supporting the Advocacy Center even in this time of “Draconian budget cuts,” and the funding crisis Alabama now faces.
“Our ultimate goal someday is to eliminate child abuse altogether,” said O’Dell. “Until then, we must circle the wagon and strive to provide a safe and secure environment. Our children are in desperate need. I encourage you to stand up for them, fight their battles for them and bring justice on their behalf.
Post a Comment