NOW a police officer, Shannon Dela Cruz said she was sexually abused repeatedly.
The pain of her experience motivated her to help children who also experience abuse, and that is why she pursued a career in law enforcement.
Dela Cruz was the inspirational speaker during the proclamation-signing ceremony Tuesday at the multi-purpose center where acting Gov. David M. Apatang designated April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention and Awareness Month.
Joining him were lawmakers, Saipan Mayor RB Camacho, officials and personnel of the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, the Division of Youth Services, the Department of Public Safety, and other government agencies, as well as advocates and community members.
For Dela Cruz, the event was an opportunity to “open the eyes” of family members.
“No one should be robbed of their innocence, especially the children,” she said.
She is asking the community to support children who speak out regarding the abuse they are experiencing.
“I ask the community to believe and support when someone is telling them about their abuse instead of protecting the perpetrator,” she said.
Some parents do not believe their own children, especially if the abuser is another family member, she added.
According to official statistics, in fiscal year 2022, 404 cases of child abuse and neglect were reported in the Northern Marianas — 345 on Saipan, 47 on Tinian and 12 on Rota.
There were 764 multiple allegations that involved 88 cases of physical abuse; 88 cases of sexual abuse; 205 cases of emotional abuse; 237 cases of neglect; and 146 other cases including suicide and teen pregnancy.
Acting Gov. Apatang said there is no reason to subject a child to any physical or mental violence.
“They do not know how to cope with physical or mental harm,” he added. “It is our collective duty to put a stop to child abuse. No offenders should be given a second chance.”
Mariah Barcinas, an intervention specialist, is encouraging community members and families to support children who experience abuse.
“We have to encourage parents to provide support to their children,” she said.
She hopes that other community members who have experienced and survived abuse will speak up and serve as an inspiration to those who feel weak to fight for their rights.
Acting Gov. David M. Apatang poses for a photo with other government officials, personnel, advocates and community members after signing a proclamation designating April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention and Awareness Month on Tuesday at the multi-purpose center.
Department of Community and Cultural Affairs Secretary Mary Margaret Sablan applauds while acting Gov. David M. Apatang signs the Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention and Awareness Month proclamation on Tuesday at the multi-purpose center.
