The mayors of Bismarck and Mandan are ready to “Go Blue” as they rekindle their competition to raise awareness about the importance of preventing child abuse. This year’s contest is scheduled for April 6, and is part of several other activities occurring locally and nationally as part of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Each city has held the title for having the most number of employees per capita to wear blue in past competitions. Last year, Bismarck won the traveling trophy by only 0.2 percent.
“We’d love to win back the trophy in our friendly Mandan-Bismarck competition that’s for a great cause,” said Mandan Mayor Tim Helbling. “We encourage City of Mandan employees and community members to wear blue on April 6th to raise awareness about child abuse prevention. Wear blue shirts, blue jeans, blue ties or socks. Snap photos and hashtag them to #wearbluedaynd and #MyMandan.”
“This is about our children and our future as we work together to prevent child abuse,” said Bismarck Mayor Mike Seminary. I encourage City of Bismarck employees and all Bismarck residents to wear blue on April 6th. “We all have an important role in prevention. Let's bump it up Bismarck! Join the fun and show our support by working together to raise awareness about child abuse prevention and keep the trophy in Bismarck! Wear Blue, Friday, April 6, snap photos and hashtag them to #wearbluedaynd and #MyBismarck."
Recent data from the North Dakota Department of Human Services shows the importance of child abuse and neglect prevention awareness. In 2016, there were 14,331 reports of suspected child abuse and neglect in North Dakota, resulting in 1,805 children confirmed as victims.
Prevent Child Abuse North Dakota Executive Director Sandra Tibke said, “Wear Blue Day is a great way to show that our communities are united against child abuse. Only by working together can we make a lasting difference in the lives of children who need us most."