The Policy Project, home of “The Utah Period Project” and “The Teen Center Project,” is launching their 2024 legislative initiative–”The Safe Child Project,” an effort to get legislation and public-private funding to expand in-classroom child sexual abuse prevention education for all of Utah’s students in kindergarten through sixth grade.
The issue of child sexual abuse is more expansive than some might expect. In Utah, one in seven children has experienced sexual abuse. This abuse casts a dark shadow over the lives of its survivors, leading to negative consequences that persist well into adulthood. Some of these consequences include mental and physical health problems, increased high school dropout rates, substance abuse, suicide, incarceration, and diminished ability to form meaningful relationships.
The Policy Project has identified an intervention that could drastically shift outcomes for children, curbing the prevalence of sexual abuse. By providing abuse prevention education approved by the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) in K-6 schools, via “The Safe Child Project,” children would become tools to address this issue effectively.
Research shows that participation in prevention programs halves the likelihood of childhood sexual abuse. But today, only 11 percent of Utah elementary students receive prevention education.
“In Utah, we already have a solid foundation in place to protect our children and ensure their safety,” Mary Catherine Perry, Director of Policy and Government Affairs for The Policy Project said. “Let’s come together and build upon these strong pillars to create a brighter future for all Utah’s children.”
Over the past decade, Utah has taken important steps to protect children by requiring that school personnel receive training and instruction on child abuse prevention every two years and offering parents training on recognizing warning signs and how to discuss child abuse with their children. Utah also mandates that all prevention education curriculum undergo a rigorous review and approval process by USBE.
Prevention education does not have to be lengthy to be effective. Current USBE-approved prevention curriculum is typically delivered in one or two 30-minute classes per year. “The Safe Child Project” seeks to enhance the existing statute, secure adequate funding, and promote open discussions about child abuse prevention so that all K-6 students have the opportunity to receive child abuse prevention education while in school.
“This is an effective solution because it empowers our children with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves. Prevention education is not just a promising approach; it’s a proven one,” Emily Bell McCormick, Founder and President of The Policy Project said. “Studies show that participation in prevention programs can cut the likelihood of childhood sexual abuse in half. By implementing ‘The Safe Child Project,’ we’re not only addressing the issue at its core but also equipping our children with the ability to break free from the cycle of abuse,”
The Policy Project’s model of working with the Utah Legislature, private donors, and community members is an optimal approach to make a difference in the lives of all Utah children.
“The need to address the issue of child abuse in Utah cannot be overstated,” Kristin Andrus, Community Champion for The Policy Project said. “The statistics reveal a stark reality and underscore the urgency of our mission. Coming together and supporting ‘The Safe Child Project’ can provide children with the tools they need to protect themselves, and pave the way for a healthier, happier future for our youngest generation.”
To advance this initiative, The Policy Project will participate in the “SAFE Symposium: Ending Child Sexual Abuse” in collaboration with Saprea, the Malouf Foundation, and Prevent Child Abuse Utah on October 25, 2023. The Policy Project will also hold a rally in the Utah State Capitol Rotunda on November 15. The event will feature speeches from community leaders and elected officials. All are welcome to attend and show their support.
