April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and promote efforts to keep children safe. This year’s theme, Powered by Hope, Strengthened by Prevention, highlights the importance of supporting families and communities to prevent child abuse before it happens.
State Senator Terri Bryant says strong communities play an important role in protecting children by ensuring families have access to resources like counseling, mental health services, and family advocacy programs.
Throughout April, awareness events will take place across Illinois, including press conferences, pinwheel plantings, and art exhibits showcasing work by children in care.
On April 4, Illinoisans can show their support by wearing blue and using the hashtags #GreatChildhoods and #GoBlueIllinois on social media.
Senator Bryant Attends Local 4th Grade Lincoln Play
Senator Terri Bryant attended the Washington Attendance Center’s 4th grade presentation of the Lincoln Play after receiving a special invitation from one of the students. The performance showcased the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, with students bringing history to life through their portrayal of key moments from his presidency.
Senator Bryant says she was impressed by the students’ enthusiasm and hard work in sharing this important piece of history. She appreciated the opportunity to support their efforts and celebrate their dedication to learning about Illinois’ most famous president.
Illinois Senate Moves to Honor Route 66’s Historic Legacy in 2026
As the 100-year anniversary of the historic Illinois Route 66 is fast approaching, Senate Joint Resolution 12 (SJR 12), which officially declares 2026 as the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Year, passed out of the Senate last week.
SJR 12 highlights Illinois’ key role in Route 66 history, as the first state to fully pave the highway and the location of its starting point.
State Senator Terri Bryant says that Route 66 is more than just a road; it is a symbol of American freedom and exploration, and rightfully deserves recognition.
The resolution now moves to the House for further consideration.
Capture the Heart of Illinois Agriculture in the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest!
The Illinois Treasurer’s Office is launching the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest, inviting students ages 8-18 to submit photos that best represent Illinois agriculture. Entries are accepted until June 13 and can be submitted electronically at the Illinois Treasurer’s Cream of the Crop Photo Contest.
The contest features three age categories:
- Ages 8-10
- Ages 11-14
- Ages 15-18
Prizes include Bright Start scholarships of $1,000, $500, and $250 for the top three winners in each category. Each student may submit up to two photos.
Snapshots for the Cream of the Crop Photo Contest may be submitted electronically at: https://illinoistreasurer.gov/Invest_in_Illinois/Ag_Invest/Cream_of_the_Crop_Photo_Contest