Nashville Raises Awareness for Child Safety at Annual Soup Sunday Event
Hey, Nashville! Let’s talk about something really important that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves — the safety and wellbeing of our kids. Last Sunday, as the community came together for the Our Kids Soup Sunday event at Nissan Stadium, one thing became crystal clear: we all need to be proactive about protecting our children.
Desi, the Wonder Dog
While delicious soups were enjoyed, there was a special guest making waves at the event: meet This is Desi, a very good girl who serves as a facility dog at Our Kids. Desi is not just adorable; she plays an integral role in supporting children who have faced some tough times. Her presence alone helps to calm and comfort kids during their visits, making the clinic feel a lot less intimidating. You see, Our Kids is a nonprofit organization that specializes in offering crisis responses to concerns about child sexual abuse.
The Importance of Awareness
If I asked you your chances of winning the lottery, and told you it was 1 in 4, how many of you would buy a ticket? Well, here’s a chilling fact: 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 7 boys will experience sexual abuse before their 18th birthday. The numbers are staggering, aren’t they? That’s why events like Soup Sunday are so crucial; they help raise awareness and garner support to combat these issues.
Shifting Perspectives
Most of us grew up hearing about “stranger danger,” but that narrative doesn’t hold up in reality. In fact, 95% of children who are sexually abused are harmed by someone they know – often a family member or a trusted friend. This makes it all the more complex when it comes to recognizing and addressing abuse. Kids can feel scared and confused, worrying about the perpetrators whom they may still love or trust.
A lot of folks might think that authority figures—like teachers, coaches, or clergy—are the main culprits behind abuse, but it’s actually much more common for the abuser to be someone already close to the child. Awareness is key: understanding that most abuse happens in familiar settings and that we need to empower our kids through open dialogues regarding their safety is super important.
Communication is Key
One of the most effective tools we have to protect our children is simple communication. That means it’s critical to let kids know they can always talk to us if they ever feel uncomfortable about something an adult says or does. Assure them they won’t get in trouble for speaking up; instead, we’ll be there to listen and help them through whatever situation they are facing.
Understanding Signs and Conditions
Recognizing the signs of abuse isn’t easy, as often there are no physical markings to indicate something’s wrong. Studies show that in 93% of abuse cases, there are no genital injuries. Understanding this reality helps us to recognize the signs and be vigilant, because, believe it or not, many of the kids treated by Our Kids are only 8 years old or younger.
We must also educate ourselves on the dangers of early exposure to pornography, as this can affect a child’s development and view of the world. It’s not just about warning our kids but teaching them how to navigate these complex conversations about boundaries and consent.
It’s Time to Take Action
Child sexual abuse is a deeply challenging topic, but awareness and action are essential. Remember, if you ever suspect anything, you can confidentially report your concerns at 1-877-237-0004. A report doesn’t require solid evidence — just your instinct that something is off. If your concerns lead you to Our Kids, rest assured that families are treated with care; the team provides a supportive atmosphere where children feel safe sharing their stories.
We Can All Make a Difference
With communities rallying around trustworthy organizations like Our Kids, we can change the narrative and advocate for our children’s safety. By supporting events like Soup Sunday, we’re not just having a good time; we’re investing in the future wellbeing of Nashville’s kids. So, let’s keep the conversation going — together, we can make a difference in ensuring that every child feels safe, supported, and loved.
