Child Abuse & Neglect
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In 2009, the movie Precious helped to bring the serious issues of verbal, physical and sexual child abuse and child neglect to the public eye. Precious depicted an extreme case of abuse, but abuse takes place in many forms and occurs within all socio-economic, ethnic, and religious groups, (the Jewish community included).
The National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System estimated that, in 2007, 1,760 children died as a result of injuries sustained from abuse or neglect. In addition to being traumatic for a child, abuse and neglect have been linked to negative behavior patterns in victims later in life, including increased likelihood of teen pregnancy, committing violent crimes, arrest, and drug or alcohol dependence.
While Jewish tradition clearly states the importance of “honoring thy father and mother,” it also includes laws protecting the inherent rights of children. A child’s parents or guardian maintain the primary responsibilities of caring and providing for them, but Jewish tradition also holds the community responsible for looking out for a child’s well-being. Organizations like JSafe, The Shofar Coalition and Faith Trust Institute and have taken on this mandate of communal responsibility, providing resources and support for victims and advocating for an abuse-free Jewish community.
Ways to Serve Now
- Become a mentor to a child through Big Brothers Big Sisters, or a similar program.
- Consider becoming a foster parent.
- Learn the signs of child abuse and neglect, and report any suspected cases.
- Organize an event to raise awareness around National Child Abuse Prevention Month (April).
- Serve as a guardian ad litem.
Find more opportunities at Repair the World’s service opportunities page.
Learn More
Must One Honor an Abusive Parent?, Peretz Rodman, My Jewish Learning
Orthodox Video Silent on Reporting Sexual Abuse to Police Rebecca Dube, Forward June, 2009
Stolen Innocence Gary Rosenblatt, The Jewish Week June, 2000
Parents Ignore Child Abuse at Rabbi’s Advice Efrat Weiss, Ynet 2, 2009
Child Abuse and Neglect Statistics Child Welfare Information Gateway
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