The 2024 Motorcade: Shining A Light of Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Awareness, an event aimed to raise awareness and advocate for the prevention of child abuse and sexual assault within the Virgin Islands community, is set to take place simultaneously on St. Thomas and St. Croix on Wednesday.
The motorcades will assemble at Canegata Ball Park in Christiansted, St. Croix, and Emile Griffith Ball Park in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, simultaneously at 5:30 p.m, according to the press release.
The V.I. Human Services Department, in collaboration with the Women’s Coalition, the Family Resource Center, the V.I. Police Department, the Sports, Parks and Recreation Department, the V.I. Education Department, VI Health Department, Tutu Park Mall, and various community agencies have joined forces to make this event possible, the press release stated.
By bringing together diverse stakeholders and community members, the event seeks to shed light on these critical issues and foster dialogue, support, and action toward creating safer environments for all children, the release stated.
“We are proud to unite with our community partners in this important initiative,” said VIDHS Assistant Commissioner Carla Benjamin. “Together, we can make a difference by standing up against child abuse and sexual assault and by providing resources and support to those affected. This motorcade symbolizes our commitment to protecting our children and building a safer, more resilient community,” said Benjamin.
Participants are encouraged to join the motorcade procession, which will feature vehicles adorned with banners and messages of awareness. In line with the spirit of solidarity, attendees are invited to wear blue to show support for Child Abuse Awareness and teal for Sexual Assault Awareness. Additionally, informational materials and resources will be distributed to attendees, offering guidance on recognizing signs of abuse and accessing support services, according to the release.
“We believe that by coming together as a community, we can create a powerful force for change,” VIDHS Commissioner Averil George. “This motorcade is not just about raising awareness; it’s about taking a stand and actively working towards preventing child abuse and sexual assault. We urge everyone to join us in this important cause,” Commissioner George concluded.
The 2024 Motorcade: Shining A Light of Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Awareness promises to be an impactful event, demonstrating the collective commitment of the Virgin Islands community to safeguarding the well-being of its children. All are welcome and encouraged to participate, the release stated.
