GREENFIELD — Watching as Deputy Police Chief William Gordon raised the flag on Friday in recognition of Child Abuse Awareness Month, Zoraida Agudelo was reminded of the words of her predecessor.
“The flag is a symbol that abuse happens right here in Franklin County, but it also shows resilience of children and their families,” Agudelo said, echoing the words of Mary Kociela, who retired in 2021 after 25 years as director of domestic and sexual violence projects with the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office. “After working for more than 20 years with survivors of domestic and sexual violence, I can testify to the resilience of children and their families. I can say how resilient and powerful you are.”
District Attorney David Sullivan called it a bittersweet day, acknowledging the reality that the flag is a reminder that one in six children are neglected or abused.
“But the hopeful sign,” Sullivan continued, “is the five other children who are going to help that other one along, and help build resilience. We’re really here to celebrate children and the community.”
What made the event special on Friday, he added, was the children who performed from the Ja’Duke Center for the Performing Arts.
“What is really special about today is all you kids,” Sullivan said, speaking to the young performers. “You remind us of how precious our children are and how talented they are, and how we want everyone to thrive.”
Sullivan and others who spoke during Friday’s ceremony, including Shawn Keane of the Department of Children and Families, said while authorities have a vital role in addressing child abuse and neglect, the community has a role to play, too.
“During this month, I challenge everyone to commit themselves to ensuring that children have a safe, stable and supportive environment, and that as a community, we take a stance against abuse and report it,” Keane said.
Children’s Advocacy Center of Franklin County and North Quabbin Executive Director Irene Woods said the event — one of her favorites days of the year — is reflective of all the people in the community who work together to help children in need.
“It reflects the police,” she said. “It reflects the prosecution. It reflects the child protection workers, and it reflects the kids and families.”
Closing out the ceremony, Agudelo asked every person in attendance to look at the person next to them and ask them to “do something to stop violence against children.”
“Together, we can all prevent child abuse,” Woods said.
Reporter Mary Byrne can be reached at mbyrne@recorder.com or 413-930-4429. Twitter: @MaryEByrne