Many people in this country see Valentine’s Day as an excuse to demonstrate devotion to loved ones. However, this February I am going to dedicate my time and energy to help raise awareness about the relationships that may need the most help: those of young people.

Teen Dating Violence and Awareness Week, Feb. 2-6, helped bring attention to an overlooked national problem among our youth — one that may continue to grow without the help of parents, educators and policy makers.

According to a 2008 survey sponsored by Liz Claiborne, Inc., nearly half of teen girls who have been in a relationship say they have been victims of verbal, physical or sexual abuse by their boyfriends. The Department of Justice reports the average age at which females are victimized by sexual assault is 14. Even more alarming is the fact that this abuse is starting among 11 to 14 year olds.

Recognizing the need for education policies addressing teen dating violence and abuse, Liz Claiborne, Inc., along with the help of the state Attorney General, members of the National Foundation of Women Legislators, additional state government officials, REDBOOK Magazine and concerned citizens nationwide, is launching a movement to ensure that all teens are educated about teen dating violence and abuse. Moms and Dads for Education to Stop Teen Dating Abuse (MADE) is a nationwide coalition of parents, teachers and everyone else who advocate legislation in every state to ensure that middle and high school students across the country are taught curricula that enables them to identify and prevent dating relationship violence and abuse. Right now, Michigan has the opportunity to take the lead nationwide to mandate anti-violence education, which will foster better futures for all our children.

This Valentine’s Day, teens need to know that love is not abuse. I am a MADE member and hope you will join me, along with thousands across the country, to help protect youths from abusive relationships. Now is your chance to take action. Join the MADE coalition at www.loveisnotabuse.com/made, and ensure that curriculum on teen dating abuse education is introduced in all schools.

Sara Vos
Alum