Guest Editorial
Men, let’s have a conversation. Spring break is upon us and you may have the opportunity to spend some extra time with your children. We encourage you to be intentional during this time and to have an important, open discussion about teen dating and domestic violence with them. Share with them the importance of mutual respect, and most importantly, model for them what a healthy relationship looks like.
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, a woman is assaulted every nine seconds in the U.S. That number is more than a startling statistic; it’s an alarming reality. Sharing statistics and raising awareness is beneficial, but it is not enough. Men, it’s time to stop being silent. Historically, men are by far the most common perpetrators of domestic violence acts toward women.
We must work together toward a solution. This is a call to action to all male role models. Every father, brother, uncle, grandfather, teacher or friend, it’s time to stand up for nonviolence. It’s time to speak up on this issue. It’s time to lead by example.
We reach out to you as proud supporters of All Pro Dad and its partnership with the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence (FCADV), as we work to create a state where domestic violence is neither ignored, minimized or tolerated.
You can help by joining us, All Pro Dad and FCADV in taking a stand against domestic violence. All Pro Dad and FCADV have created resources to help. Download ”Five Things Dads Must Teach their Sons about How to Treat Girls“ and ”Five Ways Dads can be a Good Example of a Great Man“ at AllProDad.com/Stronger to help foster these conversations. There, and at the FCADV website, fcadv.org, you also can find additional newsletters, videos, articles and information that shed light on domestic violence and help build strong, healthy relationships.
We are calling all men to accept our collective responsibility to help end domestic violence for the next generation. Take a moment to reflect on the ways in which you can lead by example. In addition to not condoning violence, promote healthy relationships. Create a safe space for family discussion, make a conscious effort to demonstrate respect and model empathy within all of your relationships, not only toward women. Children will reflect the behavior they see in their role models. Do your part to ensure that your children are looking up to the right people. We have partnered with All Pro Dad and FCADV in the support and promotion of healthy relationships. Will you do the same?
If you are currently experiencing domestic violence or know someone who is, please call the 24-hour Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119.
Tony Dungy serves as the national spokesman for All Pro Dad, a national fatherhood organization. Tony Dungy will be inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August.
Charlie Ward is a Heisman Trophy winner and former Florida State University quarterback. Charlie was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2006.
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