Strength and Bravery for Children Testifying in Court The court of law can be scary for any of us, but for a child it can be terrifying! These child victims occasionally have to bravely face their abusers in court and must dig deep to find the courage and strength to share their truth. Oftentimes, caregivers are asked to testify, which means they cannot watch their child’s testimony and vice versa. Our family advocates are able to walk with the child or caregiver to the courtroom, practice a quick breathing exercise or give affirmation, and serve as a friendly face in the courtroom. Additionally, our Strength and Bravery necklaces serve as a place of comfort to our children when facing the unimaginable. Many years ago, a brave young girl had to testify against her abuser. While disclosing her abuse to the court, she clung to a delicate necklace around her neck. As she finished giving her account, she removed the necklace and gave it to the District Attorney representing her and asked that it be given to the next child, so that they would know they are not alone and someone came before them. Her thoughtfulness prompted Alliance For Children to produce a similar necklace to be given to each testifying child moving forward: Our Strength Necklace. These necklaces, specially crafted for Alliance For Children, are inscribed with “strength” or “bravery.” Our Children’s Services Advocate remembers giving one of the Bravery necklaces to a small boy who seemed to sink into the big leather couch in the waiting room. She asked him to read what the necklace said, and saw him straighten up, his eyes focusing with attention when he said, “it says bravery.” They talked about what it means to be brave, and that he was not the first child to testify about something that happened to him and he would not be the last, but that he would be heard today, and that telling his truth would help to keep other kids safe. It is our hope that the necklace empowers all children to not be ashamed of their abuse, but proud of their hard work toward healing, never letting the abuse define them, and to hold their head high. To support the work of our Family Advocates and the mission of Alliance For Children, click here. ALLIANCEFORCHILDREN.ORG ‌ ‌ ‌ Alliance For Children | 908 Southland Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76104 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected] powered by Try email marketing for free today!