Campaigns, ribbons raise awareness of issues in April Published March 26, 2010 By Terri Nathan Nellis SARP Office NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- "Hurts one... Affects all!" is the theme for April's awareness campaigns. April is designated nationally as Child Abuse Prevention Month, Alcohol Awareness Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Nellis' helping agencies are working together to get the message out. At various displays around base, and tied on the antennas of the security forces response vehicles, there will be ribbons of various colors to raise awareness for this month's campaigns. A blue ribbon represents National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The color was chosen to represent the bruised and battered bodies of the thousands of children that are abused every day. It serves as a constant reminder that everyone has a responsibility to help keep each child safe. A teal ribbon represents Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Across the nation, teal has come to represent awareness about sexual assault. Wearing this ribbon recognizes every person affected by sexual assault, signifies the commitment to end sexual violence and offers a symbol of hope to every survivor on the path to healing. A white ribbon represents men's commitment to ending violence against women. The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort in the world of men working to end violence against women. In 1991, a handful of men decided they had a responsibility to urge fellow men to speak out about violence against women. Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls. A red ribbon represents Alcohol Awareness Month. The Red Ribbon Campaign, sponsored by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, has encouraged local communities to focus on the prevention of alcohol abuse and alcohol-related issues since 1987. Wearing a red ribbon indicates increased awareness about the negative effects of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, and shows support to promote a safe and drug-free environment for everyone. During the month of April, ribbons and information will be available at any of the displays at the Mike O'Callaghan Federal Hospital, Base Library, Crosswinds Dining Facility or Base Exchange.
