Saint Mary's County declares Respect Week to combat dating violence and promote healthy relationships

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

The St. Mary's County Commissioners convened on April 25, 2017, to address significant community issues, including the proclamation of Respect Week and the Week of the Young Child. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about dating violence and promote early childhood education, respectively.

Commissioners began the meeting with an invocation honoring the late Wade Mannato, emphasizing community support during difficult times. Following this, they unanimously approved the consent agenda, setting a collaborative tone for the session.

The highlight of the meeting was the proclamation of Respect Week, running from April 24 to 30. This initiative, supported by the St. Mary's County Commission for Women, local schools, and MedStar St. Mary's Hospital, aims to educate young people about healthy relationships and the prevention of dating violence. Speakers from these organizations stressed the importance of community partnerships in addressing this critical issue, noting that one in three adolescent girls in the U.S. experiences some form of dating abuse.

Additionally, the commissioners proclaimed the Week of the Young Child, also from April 24 to 28. This initiative recognizes the importance of early childhood education and the role of families and community organizations in fostering a supportive environment for young children. The proclamation encourages citizens to invest in high-quality early education, highlighting the collective responsibility of parents, relatives, and community members in nurturing the next generation.

These proclamations reflect the commissioners' commitment to addressing pressing social issues and enhancing the well-being of St. Mary's County residents. As the community engages with these initiatives, the hope is to foster a safer and more supportive environment for all families.

Converted from 4/25/2017 Commissioners of St. Mary's County meeting on January 20, 2025
Link to Full Meeting