Domestic violence advocates know that most program energy and money goes to crisis intervention...out of life and death necessity. Advocates also know that in order for real system change to occur some of the resources need to be spent on prevention and education. In an ideal setting there would be more balance between "reactive" advocacy and setting the stage for a paradigm shift. Sadly, we are all spread thin and do what we can to help those already suffering ...unable to get traction in prevention of that suffering.
This program was brought to my attention as one of those focusing on this transformation. I hope advocates will support this worthy initiative and we see more like it in the future:
MADE is aiming to ensure that every child in the country has the education and resources available to maintain healthy relationships, free from abuse and violence.
By building a national coalition of dedicated members, MADE seeks to guarantee that every middle and high school in the country has a curriculum that addresses teen dating violence so our children can learn the path to positive, healthy relationships.
As a member of MADE, here is how you can help:
Recruit as many MADE members as you can in your community. Go to local organizations, PTA meetings or elementary schools to find parents, friends, or neighbors who would like to get involved and invite them to be a part of the coalition. The more people MADE reaches, the more we can make sure our children are educated on the issue.
Build the movement by signing the MADE petition and help generate support for passing teen dating violence and abuse legislation in your state.
Contact your local middle and high schools and provide them with teen dating violence education materials, such as the Love Is Not Abuse curriculum, provided by Liz Claiborne Inc. free of charge.
Utilize the MADE tool kit, and send letters to your local policymakers supporting mandated legislation on teen dating abuse education in your state.
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