Long Beach, CA-February is teen dating violence awareness and prevention month, where people around the world take this opportunity to shine a spotlight on this important issue. This annual, month-long effort focuses on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse before it starts.

On February 7th, the Wilson High School community showed their support of ending dating abuse by participating in the annual Orange Day rally. Orange symbolizes a brighter future, free of violence. Wearing the bright and vibrant color, students gathered during lunchtime to listen to speakers and get informed about teen dating violence. Those who wore orange to school were rewarded and received a sticker as a prize. ASB helped put together tables along the rally stage with orange themed goodies, such as sunglasses, wristbands, and goldfish. There were also cute photo opportunities for students and teachers, where a giant frame with orange hearts was passed throughout the school to add even more brightness to the event.

One in three teens in the U.S. will experience sexual, physical, or emotional abuse by someone they are in a relationship with before they become an adult. The goal of the rally is to prevent dating abuse before it starts. By offering support and relationship education, we can promote healthy relationships. 

To support dating violence awareness, you can discuss the warning signs of dating abuse, and create a positive connection to the issue–talk about the characteristics of healthy teen relationships, not just abusive ones. It’s important to talk about how the media portrays healthy and unhealthy relationships as well. 

Love is respect, and everyone deserves to be in a safe and healthy relationship.