By Hannah Massey

Karabelle Pizzigati fellows gathered outside Thurgood Marshall Hall on April 13, to plant over 300 pinwheels in observance of Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month.

By planting these pinwheels, the Pizzigati fellows participated in a nationwide initiative, alongside numerous children’s advocacy organizations, that highlights the need for safe and nurturing environments for children. The pinwheel is recognized as the symbol for child abuse prevention.

“As child advocates, it is our role to be the voice for the voiceless children,” said Emily Villalta, a Pizzigati fellow and junior public policy major.

Villalta said the pinwheels serve as a reminder of the responsibility everyone has to safeguard and nurture vulnerable young lives so children receive the care and attention they deserve. 

“Not only does each pinwheel represent children who have been abused, they also represent our responsibility as advocates to care for and look out for children,” Villalta said.

The Karabelle Pizzigati Initiative Fellowship was established in memory of the late Karabelle Pizzigati, a devoted advocate for children’s rights and welfare, who spent her life advancing policies to improve the lives of young people. The fellowship motivates students to engage in careers focused on children’s advocacy.

Throughout the month of April, Pizzigati fellows urge individuals, organizations and communities to collaborate in raising awareness about child abuse and neglect.

“This is a great opportunity to bring awareness to students on campus,” said Ciara Hartman, a sophomore business major and student volunteer.

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan officially designated April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, marking a national commitment to raise awareness and prevent child abuse. This initiative has since fostered numerous programs and activities aimed at safeguarding children’s well-being.

According to the National Children’s Alliance, more than 600,000 children endure abuse annually in the United States. Neglect accounts for 75% of child abuse cases. 

In Maryland, more than 21,000 instances of child maltreatment were reported in 2021.

“This event is representative of all the kids we haven’t helped yet and all the children that are still in horrible situations,” said Robin Schlesinger, Pizzigati fellow and a junior family science major.

Featured Image: Pinwheels planted by Karabelle Pizzigati Fellows. Photo by Hannah Massey.