Norman proclaims April 2025 Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month; nonprofits plan blue‑light vigil

The City of Norman on Monday acknowledged a mayoral proclamation designating April 2025 as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month, a measure the council approved unanimously.

The proclamation, read at the council meeting, cites that Cleveland County reported 830 victims of child abuse or neglect in 2024 and urges residents to help prevent and report abuse. The council voted to acknowledge receipt of the proclamation by unanimous voice vote.

The proclamation notes community groups, schools, faith organizations and volunteers provide services and advocacy year‑round. Representatives of Bethesda and the Exchange Club of Norman came forward to accept the proclamation and to thank the council. A representative from those organizations said the groups will hold a public ceremony at the flagpole at Main and The Tracks on Tuesday, April 1, at 7:00 p.m., and will illuminate blue lights to correspond to the county’s confirmed cases.

Public comment preceding the proclamation included remarks from Baxter, founder of the nonprofit Racism Stinks, who invited attendees to join the Norman Unity Parade on May 3 and said the group’s motto is “Real, Not Woke.” Baxter told the council the parade “is about rebuilding trust in our law enforcement and the communities that they serve.”

Council members and invited nonprofit representatives emphasized outreach beyond April and promoted local prevention resources and community events tied to the awareness month. Council members also encouraged residents to display ribbons and signs available beginning April 1.

The proclamation directs city departments and residents to prioritize child safety and recognizes local nonprofit involvement in prevention and advocacy; it does not itself create new funding or programs.