LEONARDTOWN, Md. — The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County formally proclaimed February as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month during their Feb. 3 meeting, emphasizing education, prevention and support for survivors.
Commissioner Scott Ostrow read the proclamation, noting the widespread impact of dating violence and the heightened risks teens face.
“Dating violence is a significant issue, impacting individuals of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations and socioeconomic backgrounds,” Ostrow said. “Whereas one in three teens will experience physical, sexual or emotional abuse from someone they are in a relationship with before becoming adults.”
The proclamation also highlighted the dangers associated with teen relationships and breakups.
“With one in five in a serious relationship, where they have been slapped, pushed, hit, threatened or coerced by their partner,” Ostrow read. “With breakups being a time of even greater risk.”
Ostrow said the month serves to recognize survivors and reinforce the county’s commitment to prevention.
“Whereas during National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, we honor the courage of survivors, acknowledge the importance of their voices, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting them and preventing future instances of dating violence in our community,” he said.
Education was identified as a key component of prevention.
“Whereas education and awareness are crucial in preventing dating violence and promoting healthy relationships built on respect, equality and communication,” Ostrow continued.
The proclamation also recognized local organizations providing assistance to those impacted by dating violence.
“Whereas we commend our local organizations and community advocates that provide critical support services and safe spaces for individuals experiencing dating violence, as well as education for the public on available resources for intervention and support,” he read.
The proclamation concluded with a call to action for the community.
“Now, therefore, we, the commissioners of St. Mary’s County, do hereby proclaim the month of February as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in St. Mary’s County,” Ostrow said, “and encourage our entire community to learn more about this issue in hopes that by raising awareness and fostering open dialogue about dating violence, we can create a culture of accountability, empathy and empowerment, making our community a safe place for all.”
The proclamation was signed Feb. 3, 2026, by all the commissioners of St. Mary’s County.
Following the proclamation, Taylor Spencer Davis, deputy director of the Southern Maryland Center for Family Advocacy, addressed the commissioners and public.
“I just want to thank the commissioners for consistently recognizing this important month,” Davis said. “I wish I had lots of events that were going on in our school system to tell you about. But St. Mary’s County Public Schools have not allowed us to do that education since before COVID.”
Davis emphasized the importance of prevention and education.
“We would much rather prevent these things from happening than deal with them after the fact,” she said.
She noted that efforts to reintroduce dating violence education into county schools are ongoing.
“So that’s something that all of us here are working on to try to get that education back in our schools,” Davis said.
Despite limitations in school-based programming, Davis said services remain available through the Center for Family Advocacy.
“The Center for Family Advocacy is continuing to provide services to survivors, free of charge, 24/7/365,” she said. “So if you or anyone out there is struggling or just wants more information, please reach out to us at the center.”
Davis provided contact information during her remarks.
“We have a website, www.smcfa.net. Our number is 301-373-4141,” she said.
She also highlighted community engagement and partnerships.
“In October, our domestic violence event had 70 people in attendance,” Davis said. “The National Coalition of 100 Black Women supported that event and was a huge help, so I want to shout them out, too, since they’re here.”
Davis said similar educational efforts are ongoing in neighboring jurisdictions.
“Calvert County Public Schools and Calvert County in general,” she said. “We have events going on there for education.”
She concluded by reiterating her hope to expand those efforts locally.
“So, I just want to prioritize, hopefully bringing that back to the county,” Davis said.
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