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Published on April 27, 2024
Gov. Abbott and First Lady of Texas Urge State-wide Day of Prayer and Solidarity to Combat Child AbuseSource: Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott

Gov. Greg Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott are calling on the Lone Star State to don blue and bow heads in prayer this Sunday, April 28. Specifically designated as Blue Sunday, this day of prayer is part of a concerted effort during Child Abuse Prevention Month to shine a light on the struggles of abuse survivors and to bolster the efforts of those on the front lines combatting this scourge.

In a clear call to arms, the Governor's Mansion in Austin has sprouted a blue ribbon, a stark symbol against the backdrop of political pomp. "As Governor, there is nothing more important than protecting the most vulnerable in our state: our children," Abbott stated, underlining the weight of the issue. To truly commit to safeguarding Texas's youngest, Texans are being urged to not only wear blue but to also spiritually engage with the cause. This act of solidarity aims to be actively ready to commit to creating safer futures for the state's youth.

According to a statement released by the Governor's office, both the Governor and First Lady are passionately invested in this cause. "Every child should have the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment," the First Lady expressed, echoing the sentiment that safeguarding children is a collective responsibility. The duo's initiative extends an invitation to citizens to join them in a state-wide reflection on the perils facing neglected children and how the broader community can serve to protect them.

Earlier in the month, Governor Abbott had already set the stage for this call to action by issuing a proclamation aimed squarely at denouncing child abuse and marking April 2024 as Child Abuse Prevention Month. This Sunday's observance will surely amplify the ongoing conversation around child welfare in Texas. "Cecilia and I are proud to place a blue ribbon on the front gates of the Governor’s Mansion to raise awareness and recognize child abuse survivors and advocates," Abbott announced, signaling a clear commitment to wearing the color blue as not merely a badge of awareness but as a promise to relentlessly to keep fighting for justice and safety for all children.