Wear orange Tuesday to support teen dating abuse awareness

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Wear orange colored clothing Tuesday, Feb. 10, to help show support for teenage dating abuse awareness.

Historically, February is recognized as teenage dating awareness month. Both the City of Vicksburg and Warren County officially recognized this at meetings held Monday, Feb. 2.

Warren County Board of Supervisors President Kellie Barfield asked local organizer Natasha James if she’d seen results from formally declaring the awareness month.

“Yes,” said James. “Just from speak to these teenagers, you can tell that some of them are unaware they were in abusive relationships.”

James also attended the City of Vicksburg Board of Mayor and Alderman meeting that Monday.

“Please wear orange Tuesday, Feb. 10, to help show support for this cause,” she urged.

According to Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention, nearly 10 percent of teenagers between the age of 12 to 18 are in abusive relationships in the United States. It includes stalking, harassment, physical or sexual abuse.

According to the site, unfortunately, many cases go unreported because victims are afraid to tell their family and friends. If you are experiencing dating abuse, then please get help immediately. Various resources exist to assist victims.

The City of Vicksburg’s formal proclamation is posted below.