The local community is invited to gather in support of those hurt by violence during a Stop the Silence Rally on Thursday, April 13 at 6 p.m. around the Erath County Courthouse in downtown Stephenville.
Advocates will gather and march to raise awareness to end child abuse, sexual assaults, domestic violence and violent crimes.
“We want to prevent and educate about these crimes in our community as well as support those victims as they go through their recovery,” said Laura Gambino, Executive Director of Cross Timbers Family Services.
The event will begin with an opening ceremony with the National Anthem, a flag presentation by the Tarleton Corp of Cadets, the reading of the Stop the Silence Proclamation and a wreath dedication by the Erath County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard as well as a welcome from the District Attorney and other officials in the community.
Area law enforcement, EMS,andnonprofitagencies will be on site with booths and interactive games during the child-friendly event. The Tarleton Corp of Cadets “Grill Team” will also be preparing food for sale by donation to fund next year’s event.
The event is held in conjunction with National Crime Victims Rights week (April 23-29, 2023), which was established in 1981 by President Ronald Reagan to bring attention and support to victims of crime. The event also coincides with April as National Child Abuse Month and National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Dublin City Council and Mayor David Leatherwood showed their support of the Stop the Silence and raising awareness of such violence by reading and approving a proclamation in recognition during the regular council meeting Monday night. Erath County, Stephenville and Tarleton also approved proclamations. For more information on Stop the Silence, visit https:// www.facebook.com/ ErathStoptheSilence.