Local activists and officials in Mecklenburg County are preparing their blue outfits and pinwheels for Child Abuse Prevention Month this April. These symbols will play a central role in a campaign to promote child protection and prevent abuse, according to an announcement by the Mecklenburg County Child Abuse Prevention Team. The team, a coalition of government, education, nonprofit, and health organizations, has organized a public gathering to kick off the month’s awareness efforts, according to Mecklenburg County’s news release.

The kick-off event is set for Thursday, April 3, at 10 a.m., at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, as announced by the Mecklenburg County. Notable figures such as District Attorney Spencer B. Merriweather III, and representatives from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and Pat’s Place will address the community. Apart from the talks, the event planners have included light refreshments and a candy buffet. If the weather allows, attendees will have an opportunity to place pinwheels around the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, symbolizing their commitment to the well-being of the area's children.

These pinwheels represent a national symbol for child abuse prevention—a signifier of the safe, carefree childhood that should be afforded to all children. Described as gardens, these pinwheels will sprout across Mecklenburg County, and used by the Child Abuse Prevention Team to facilitate conversations about how each individual, beyond just parents and caregivers, has a role to play in preventing child abuse and neglect. The group is encouraging community members to don blue clothing as a sign of their support for the prevention of child abuse.

In its pursuit to empower the community, the team has planned a series of actions through the month of April, which include a dedicated social media campaign where prevention tips and resources will be disseminated. The aim is not only to raise awareness but also to educate the public on the various ways to contribute to safeguarding children against neglect and abuse. The campaign is set to highlight local resources and provide training to bolster the community's ability to prevent child maltreatment.