Mount Clemens proclaims assault awareness month; Turning Point outlines April events

Mayor Pro Tem Ronald Campbell proclaimed the month of April 2022 as an assault awareness month for the City of Mount Clemens, saying the community must work together to prevent violence and support survivors.

The proclamation, read aloud during the commission's announcements, cited lifetime prevalence statistics and urged prevention education, increased awareness and accountability for perpetrators. "And now, therefore, I, Ronald Campbell, mayor pro tem of the city of Mount Clemens, on behalf of the city commission, and all our citizens, do hereby proclaim the month of April 2022 as [an] assault awareness month in the City of Mount Clemens," Campbell read.

Sharon Davenport accepted the proclamation on behalf of Turning Point board and staff. "We intend to have a Take Back the Night activity," Davenport said, and she announced two public events: Take Back the Night on April 7 and a fundraiser, "Stepping Out with the Stars," on April 29 to raise funds for survivors. She encouraged organizations to request survivor speakers and said event and outreach details are available on Turning Point's website, turningpointmacomb.org. "If anyone is interested in having one of our staff or one of our survivor speakers come out and speak to your organization or group, you can also find that information on our website," Davenport said.

Why it matters: The proclamation signals municipal recognition of a public-health and safety concern and highlights community resources and events intended to raise awareness and support for survivors.

No formal action was required by the commission to issue the proclamation; Turning Point representatives received it and shared ways for residents and groups to engage with upcoming events.