news

Congressman for All Alaska Don Young voted today in support of House Resolution 299, House Resolution 289, and House Resolution 119.  All are specific Resolutions supporting a broader goal of raising our nation’s awareness when it comes to violence and abuse.

H. Res. 299 expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that Congress should increase public awareness of child abuse and neglect and should continue to work with the States to reduce the incidence of child abuse and neglect through such programs as the child Welfare Services and Promoting Safe and Stable Families programs. 

H. Res. 289 which expresses the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to raising awareness and encouraging prevention of sexual assault in the United States and supporting the goals and ideals of National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month

H. Res. 199 supports the mission and goals of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in order to increase public awareness of the rights, needs, and concerns of victims and survivors of crime in the United States during such week and throughout the year.

“Sexual assault, crime, and the abuse of our Nation’s children are very serious issues that need to be addressed,” said Congressman Young.  “Too many adults and children each year fall between the cracks because people aren’t aware something is happening, or they are scared to call the authorities, and not enough attention is being brought to these circumstances.  Research has shown that child abuse and neglect are often the precursor to delinquent and adult criminal behavior.  Being abused or neglected as a child increases the likelihood of an arrest as a juvenile or adult significantly.  I have always been an advocate of services, such as Parents Anonymous Inc, that work to help parents cope, learn parenting skills, improve adult and child relationships, foster positive child development, and create a nurturing family environment. 

“We need to address and stop these issues at the source, instead of letting them begin a cycle of violence in our youth.  These Resolutions go hand-in-hand.  We need to call as much attention as possible to issues of assault and abuse, and continue to educate people on these circumstances.  Education helps break the cycle.”    

####