Displays of solidarity: Pinwheels, blue lights show child abuse awareness in Lubbock

Colorful pinwheels, blue ribbons and lights are on display through April around Lubbock as the community shows signs of solidarity against child abuse.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and it's a problem that's close to home.

In Lubbock County, an average of three children per day are confirmed as victims of abuse and neglect, according to data provided by the state Department of Family and Protective Services.

In 2022, there were 734 confirmed cases of child abuse in Lubbock County. Of those cases, two resulted in death.

As a show of support, numerous community organizations, including Covenant Health, UMC Health System and United Family stores are working with advocacy organizations to raise awareness.

“As a hospital, it is our job to take care of kids when they get sick or bump their heads,” Covenant Children’s CEO Dr. Amy Thompson said. “At Covenant Children’s, it is our mission to provide the best future and well-being for all kids, and that can’t happen if we allow our children to suffer from abuse and neglect. I am proud of our team and their efforts to educate the public and stop child abuse in our region.”

Starting last week, Covenant Children’s will light up its outdoor space blue each night, according to a statement from Covenant Health.

"Thanks to support from the Covenant Health Foundation, Covenant Children’s will be illuminated with blue trees, lights, and walls," the statement reads. "We encourage community members to stop by and take photos of the blue lights and post to social media using the #CovWearsBlue."

On Monday, Covenant Children's is inviting the community to join it for a ribbon tying ceremony honoring the victims of child abuse. Organizers will read the story behind the blue ribbon and have a special blessing from Covenant Children’s leaders.

On April 14, Covenant Children’s will host its 10th Annual Child Abuse Conference. The virtual event is open to local professionals including teachers, nurses, social workers, etc. This year’s event focuses on prevention.

Community Partners of Lubbock and the Lubbock County Child Welfare Board have partnered with United Supermarkets to display multi-colored Pinwheels for Prevention throughout the month of April outside of the following 3 store locations: 3405 50th St., 4205 98th St. and 8010 Frankford Ave.

Why the pinwheel?

In 2008, the pinwheel was introduced as the new national symbol for child abuse prevention through the Pinwheels for Prevention campaign. According to DFPS, pinwheels were selected as a display, because by their very nature, pinwheels connote playfulness, joy, and childhood. They have come to serve as a physical reminder of the great childhoods we want for all children. Displays are sponsored by United Supermarkets/Market Street, University Medical Center, Lubbock County Child Welfare Board and Saint Francis Texas.

The pinwheel was introduced as the national symbol for child abuse prevention through Pinwheels for Prevention by Prevent Child Abuse America in 2008. The Blue Ribbon is recognized internationally as the symbol for Child Abuse Awareness.

National Child Abuse Prevention Month emphasizes the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect, and to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families. Communities are encouraged to share child abuse and neglect prevention awareness strategies and activities throughout April and the year.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Pinwheels, blue lights show child abuse awareness in Lubbock