The 10th annual Children’s Advocacy Center Day in South Carolina took place April 7 with a livestream from the State Capitol Complex.
Supported by the office of the Attorney General, the South Carolina Network of Children’s Advocacy Centers (SCNCAC) and Children’s Trust, and sponsored by Silent Tears, the event brought together leaders to discuss the statewide response to child abuse and celebrate the work of Children’s Advocacy Centers to protect children. Shauna Galloway-Williams, executive director of Greenville-based Julie Valentine Center, noted the impact of Silent Tears in providing resources on issues associated with child sexual abuse and violence against women.
Gov. Henry McMaster issued a proclamation declaring it Children’s Advocacy Center Day, and a General Assembly concurrent resolution was presented as well. Speakers also included Children’s Trust CEO Sue Williams, Attorney General Alan Wilson, SCNCAC Executive Director Thomas Knapp, and State Child Advocate Amanda Whittle.
Sue Williams noted that it takes everyone working together to keep children safe. She cited the partnerships that are moving South Carolina’s stakeholders toward a system that supports holistic child and family well-being while preventing child maltreatment and creating greater equity to benefit all children and families.
“We stand here today in April – Child Abuse Prevention Month – with fellow leaders because we firmly believe that when prevention, protection, treatment, and prosecution stand together, we do what is best for South Carolina’s children and South Carolina’s future,” Sue Williams said. “With stronger laws, greater coordinated action, increased measurements, accountability and investments, more children will have the chance to experience a great childhood – symbolized by the simple pinwheel – and grow up healthy, nurtured, and safe.”
