APD and Community Partners launch ‘Speak Up, It’s Ok’ Campaign

Oct. 6, 2021

The Albuquerque Police Department in conjunction with New Mexico State Police, the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office and the All Faiths Children’s Advocacy Center have launched the ‘Speak Up, It’s Ok’ campaign to raise awareness about child abuse.

New Mexico is often ranked among the worst in the nation for child abuse. Through the ‘Speak Up, It’s Ok’ campaign, the hope is that more children and adults will speak up if they see signs of abuse.

Throughout the month of October, APD will be sharing a series of videos to its Instagram page @albuquerquepolice, geared toward children and teens. The last video of the campaign is for parents, providing helpful tips to manage the stresses of parenting.

APD is also working with the Attorney General’s Office on a pamphlet for the courts, providing tools for judges regarding child abuse. For instance, it will include information about creating a child friendly courtroom with courtroom dogs, teddy bears or other comforting items.

“Far too often child abuse goes unreported in our community,” said Chief Harold Medina.  “We hope our message encourages children, teens and adults to speak up about child abuse and provide a voice for those in need.”

We encourage anyone who’s experiencing child abuse or has seen signs of abuse, to contact #SAFE or 1(855)-333-7233. Youth can also text (505)-591-9444 to seek support and resources or even self-report suspected abuse or neglect.

A link to the first video can be found here.