By: L.N. Reklai
November 25, 2016 (Koror, Palau) President Remengesau Jr. proclaims Friday, November 25,2016, a White Ribbon Day for the Republic of Palau, a day in which men lead the fight to end violence against women and children.
Joining the movement led by men to raise awareness and provide support in the fight to end violence committed against women and children, Presidential Proclamation 16-196 calls on “men and women, united in the prevention of, and to bringing about the end of, violence against women and children; urge the public to wear a White Ribbon as a public declaration that: “I do not condone, I will not excuse, and I will not remain silent about violence against women and children in my community.” /restrict]
With the holidays and festivities approaching, President Remengesau Jr. also joins with Public Safety, Behavioral Health Policy Council, Ministry of Health and others to call attention to the growing traffic accidents and traffic fatalities caused by drunk or drugged driving.
In the presidential proclamation 16-194, November 23 to January 31 are designated Red Ribbon Months, in order for there to be awareness about the consequences of drunk or drugged driving and working together to reduce such incidents.
With the theme, “You Only Live Once – YOLO”, the awareness campaign brings all key agencies such as the police, ministry of health and behavioral health together with community to help raise public awareness.
The collaboration brings information and support to the table. Behavioral Health Policy Council provides a 24/7 counseling to anyone needing any counseling support during these holidays. The number to call according to the Chairperson Elenita Brel, is 775-TALK.
“This is not for mentally ill patients. This is for anyone with mental and emotional stress that needs counseling. It’s free and the responders are trained and certified to handle any problems,” asserted Brel. [/restrict]