Rep. Tarr Calls on Alaskans to Host House Parties to Watch Documentary Confronting Child Sexual Abuse
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 20, 2015
ANCHORAGE – The cable television channel TLC, in partnership with two leading child abuse prevention organizations, will air a new documentary later this month exploring the challenges faced by the victims of child sexual abuse. Rep. Geran Tarr (D-Anchorage) has been working on solutions to the epidemic rate of child sexual abuse in Alaska and is encouraging Alaskans to watch “Breaking the Silence” Sunday, August 30 at 6 pm Alaska time.
“I’m hosting a house party to watch this important documentary and I hope others will too,” said Rep. Tarr. “This documentary will be a great tool for starting the conversation on child sexual abuse prevention. It will also give victims tools they can use in their own lives.”
Alaska leads the nation in rates of child sexual abuse and in 2014 there were more than two-thousand allegations of abuse.
“We love the idea of Alaskans statewide hosting house parties to learn more about Erin’s Law and sexual abuse prevention,” said Trevor Storrs, Executive Director of the Alaska Children’s Trust. “By working together we can create change. Sharing information on personal body safety will help families start that important conversation.”
The new documentary features lengthy interviews with child sexual abuse survivors, including Erin Merryn who has made it her life’s work to pass Erin’s Law in every state. Erin’s Law mandates that sexual abuse prevention education be made available in public schools. Earlier this year Alaska became the 25th state to pass Erin’s Law.
“I’m thrilled Representative Tarr has stepped up to help promote the August 30th airing of this important documentary,” said Erin Merryn. “My goal is to give every kid the voice I never had. The more people know about Erin’s Law and the more information is shared the quicker that goal will be achieved.”
In addition to airing “Breaking the Silence”, TLC will also be airing public service announcementsand will have resources for victims and others available online.
For more information about hosting or joining a house party please call Rep. Tarr at (907) 269-0144.
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