FEATURE

National Foster Care Month

Labor Trafficking and Summer Youth Employment

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

Continuing with our celebration of the 60^th Anniversary of the Governor’s Mansion, below are “before and after” photos of the State Dining Room. The first taken in 1969, and the second showing the State Dining Room in 2023.

Photos courtesy of Louisiana State Library Archives

Women’s Health

A Mindful Reflection:
Finding Strength in the Midst of a Storm

by Nakia Hamilton-Collins, LPC-S

Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, many women were able to develop self-care and coping strategies to address the day-to-day stressors that may have threatened their mental or emotional stability. Unfortunately, the pandemic created unforeseen challenges that society had never seen before. These challenges dramatically changed women’s lives and, undoubtedly, have profoundly affected women’s overall health. For example, the mandatory shutdown in and of itself produced widespread home confinement, massive job loss and unemployment, limited or reduced income, loss of income, limited to no social or physical interactions outside of the home, death of loved ones, and many other stressors. Moreover, these stressors may have led to isolation, hopelessness or helplessness, and the inability to cope with day-to-day functioning. In addition, many women did not have adequate support systems when dealing with their stressors. These stressors may have caused women to develop unhealthy coping habits such as overeating, substance use, or repressing their feelings while still maintaining their roles as primary caregivers for their families.

Women who experience elevated risk factors should also be aware that engaging in self-care activities (exercising, meditation, mindfulness, and journaling) and having a circle of support (family, friends, and pets) can decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety. These self-help tools are simple strategies women can employ while repurposing their state of being, creating a space of positive reflection, growth, and transformation. In addition, routine self-care can effectively stimulate balance and purpose, decreasing hopelessness and fear.

Educating women on the risk factors associated with mental illness may encourage and increase early screening. Early identification and treatment of risk factors may decrease the need for intensive outpatient or in-patient services (Florence et al., 2020). Symptoms associated with depression and anxiety necessitated mental health treatment at alarming rates (Florence et al., 2020). Identifying triggers associated with anxiety and stress is an essential part of treatment. In addition, it is creating preventive/effective measures and advocating for effective outcomes. Education, screening, and access to services are part of an integrative awareness, prevention, and treatment approach. Education increases awareness of personal needs (Florence et al., 2020). Educating about and encouraging self-care can offer a layer of support for individuals with minor stressors that can be self-managed or self-regulated with minimal support.

The pandemic also changed access to mental health. The traditional in-person/office appointments gave way to telehealth/virtual appointments. As a result, many women sought therapy to help address their mental health and adjust to “pandemic life.” Telehealth has provided convenience and broader access to women who work, have families, or live in areas without mental health services. In addition, employers have recognized the need to expand employee assistance programs and provide increased therapy sessions.

Access to therapeutic services (counseling, medical assessment, and medications) is integral to treating mental illness. The lack of these services may lead to severe symptoms and increased hospitalizations. The key is for mental health services to be accessible, convenient, and consistent. Accessing services may help women reintegrate into the workforce or career change, lose weight gained during the pandemic, adjust to new routines, readjust finances during an inflation crisis, and even learn to cope with the new phenomenon long COVID. Post-pandemic research has revealed increased anxiety and depression in mental health screening among women (Florence et al., 2020).

In the spirit of recognizing May as National Mental Health Awareness Month, let us be purposeful in recharging efforts to increase awareness and the importance of promoting mental health treatment for achieving positive outcomes for women’s overall well-being.

Reference: Florence, T. & Van Wijngaarden-Cremers, P. (2020). Women’s Mental Health in the Time of Covid-19 Pandemic. Frontiers in Global Women’s Health (1).

People of
Louisiana

Corrie Campbell
SCHOOLS

Career and Education Fair
MILITARY

FASD Summit
COMMUNITY

Corrie Campbell

SCHOOLS

Veterans Career and Education Fair

MILITARY

FASD Summit

COMMUNITY

RECIPE

from the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion

In honor of the Kentucky Derby and beautiful weather, enjoying a fresh mint julep this May!

Memorable Verse

May 2023

THE FIRST DOGS

May 2023

It sure is getting warmer out here!

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Delery has lived there all of her life except during undergraduate school and a brief stint in Seattle, WA. She is a mother to four boys, ranging in ages from 21 to 16, and they are the heart and soul of her life.

Delery earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and Master’s Degree from Louisiana State University. She completed a fellowship at Loyola University, New Orleans Institute of Politics, and currently attends Harvard Kennedy School of Public Policy. Her volunteer work has mostly evolved from issues that have affected her personally. Actively engaged in disability rights advocacy, Delery has testified numerous times in the Louisiana Legislature regarding issues that affect persons with developmental disabilities. She served as the chair of the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council, worked for seven years directing regional advocacy efforts and is a graduate of Louisiana’s Partners In Policymaking.

April 14, 2023

Feature: Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month

Recognizing
Child Abuse
Prevention Month

by Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Recognizing Child Abuse
Prevention Month

By Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Child abuse is a taboo topic that many do not care to discuss; however, with approximately five child deaths reported every day, we should recognize that this epidemic is taking over our communities and should be prepared to respond appropriately. The Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA), as amended and reauthorized by the CAPTA Reauthorization Act of 2010, defines child abuse and neglect as, at a minimum, “any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation (including sexual abuse as determined under section 111), or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm” (42 U.S.C. 5101 note, § 3).

When someone hears the term “child abuse,” they most commonly associate it with physical abuse; however, there are four types of abuse to include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and child neglect. Physical abuse is the deliberate intention to inflict pain. Wounds, bruises, burns, fractures, and sore muscles are signs of physical abuse, but abuse can also result from severe acts of discipline. Emotional abuse is behaviors toward the child that cause mental anguish (also called psychological abuse). Examples of emotional abuse are shouting often at the child, withholding kindness or affection, extended periods of silence, and harsh jokes at the expense of the child.

Child neglect is the most common type of child abuse and can be defined as parents or caregivers who are continually unavailable for the child. Neglect occurs even if the parent is physically present but unavailable or refuses to care for the child or meet their needs. Sexual abuse is defined as touching a child in a sexual manner, or having sexual relations with the child is sexual abuse and includes any behavior toward the child for sexual stimulation. This type of abuse is characterized by fondling, forced sexual acts, and indecent physical exposure. In the United States, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused by their 18th birthday.

Though these stats are alarming, we are so thankful to have 15 Children’s Advocacy Centers in the state of Louisiana to assist child victims of abuse. Children’s Advocacy Centers (CACs) are community-based, child-friendly, and trauma-informed organizations that coordinate a multidisciplinary response to child maltreatment allegations. CACs deliver a best practice model that brings together child protective services investigators, law enforcement, forensic interviewers, prosecutors, family advocates, and medical and mental health professionals to provide a coordinated, comprehensive response to victims and their caregivers. Simply put, CACs are a safe haven for child victims and their non-offending caregivers as they assist them on their road to healing and justice. The Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC) is the state association dedicated to supporting each CAC and ensuring that every victim of child abuse in Louisiana has access to the services they need to experience justice and healing.

During April, you will find blue pinwheel gardens planted throughout the community. In 2008, Prevent Child Abuse America introduced the blue pinwheel as the national symbol for child abuse prevention. The pinwheel represents the great childhood that every child deserves and the role we all play in providing a loving and supportive environment for the children in our lives. You will also hear of various activities such as social media campaigns, proclamation ceremonies, prevention education sessions, and more! To find a Child Abuse Prevention Month event near you, please visit the LACAC Facebook page, www.facebook/lacacs, or our website at www.lacacs.org.

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director | Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

ABOUT LACAC
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers’ mission is to promote and support Children’s Advocacy Centers in providing a coordinated multidisciplinary response to child victims of abuse through development, training and advocacy.

April 14, 2023

Blog – April 2023

BLOG OF FIRST LADY OF LOUISIANA DONNA EDWARDS

National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking

April 2023

This time last year I launched the National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking (NCPHST). I believe, at the time, I had no idea how far the reach would go and no idea how many people would join this fight.

On Sunday, April 3, 2022 our newly formed National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking hosted several first ladies and governors at an awareness event in New Orleans. We had close to 500 in attendance there to learn. We learned from those working to rescue and support people trapped in HST and heard from several survivors about the horrors of this crime. It was an incredible weekend and the journey began.

Since this singular event took place, much has happened. Through the work of my office and the Governor’s office of Human Trafficking we have made great strides. Here are some accomplishments in just this one year.

Because of the outreach of the event, over 2,800 key professionals including hospitality workers, EMTs, Emergency Room staff, and 911 operators were trained to recognize trafficking, report it, and understand the resources available to victims.
These trainings provided professionals, who are often the first in contact with trafficking victims (many underage), the knowledge and resources to act and refer the victims to appropriate resources.
As a direct result of the NCPHST event, the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention (OHTP) has conducted and/or partnered with agencies to host 35 human trafficking trainings throughout the state.
In addition to these trainings, the Office of Human Trafficking Prevention partnered with the Louisiana Alliance of Child Advocacy Centers to provide a statewide, multi-state care coordination workshop.

Also, 15 DARE Officers participated in a “Train-the-Trainer” session and will be responsible for ongoing training for more than 150 DARE Officers statewide to include age-appropriate lessons on grooming and trafficking to our children.

Overall, 3,290 professionals have been trained since the event took place, and we still receive requests for training.
We partnered with as many state agencies as we could to disseminate information. I have done several radio and print interviews. Cox Communications and LPB have run PSA’s on all of their affiliates throughout the state.
There were billboards on our highways, stickers with the national hotline on the backs of restroom stall doors, and very recently we have partnered with the trucking associations to have posters, bumper stickers, and pamphlets on our trucks and in truck stops.

My work in this area has grown at a rate I could not have predicted. But, the need for action in Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness is immediate and urgent. You can find information about our work in the past and organizations in your area you can help on our website here and information about NCPHST here.

I think of this verse from Isaiah 61:1-2, when I need encouragement to continue this sometimes difficult work. “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies.”

I fully intend to continue working on this issue after our time in the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion is done. I hope you will join me in this fight – even if just in prayer.

National Coalition for the
Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking

April 2023

Because of the outreach of the event, over 2,800 key professionals including hospitality workers, EMTs, Emergency Room staff, and 911 operators were trained to recognize trafficking, report it, and understand the resources available to victims.
These trainings provided professionals, who are often the first in contact with trafficking victims (many underage), the knowledge and resources to act and refer the victims to appropriate resources.
As a direct result of the NCPHST event, the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention (OHTP) has conducted and/or partnered with agencies to host 35 human trafficking trainings throughout the state.
In addition to these trainings, the Office of Human Trafficking Prevention partnered with the Louisiana Alliance of Child Advocacy Centers to provide a statewide, multi-state care coordination workshop.

Overall, 3,290 professionals have been trained since the event took place, and we still receive requests for training.
We partnered with as many state agencies as we could to disseminate information. I have done several radio and print interviews. Cox Communications and LPB have run PSA’s on all of their affiliates throughout the state.
There were billboards on our highways, stickers with the national hotline on the backs of restroom stall doors, and very recently we have partnered with the trucking associations to have posters, bumper stickers, and pamphlets on our trucks and in truck stops.

I fully intend to continue working on this issue after our time in the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion is done. I hope you will join me in this fight – even if just in prayer.

FEATURE

Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director,
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchel
Executive Director | Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

FEATURE

Recognizing Child Abuse Prevention Month

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell

Executive Director,
Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

Krystle Hilliard-Mitchell
Executive Director | Louisiana Alliance of Children’s Advocacy Centers (LACAC)

LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

Keep Calm and Finish Strong

Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month

The Free Coalition to End Human Trafficking in Louisiana

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

This year we celebrate 60 years of the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion!
These photos were taken at its groundbreaking in 1962.

Photos courtesy of Louisiana State Library Archives

Women’s Health

THE BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING

by Ashley Farge, MD, IBCLC

LSUHSC School of Medicine
New Orleans, LA
Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics
LA AAP Chapter Breastfeeding Coordinator

Birth is an exciting time for parents and full of emotion, but it is also full of change and new decisions. One decision parents may ponder is determining the best way to feed the baby. Over 80% of women in the United States initiate breastfeeding in the hospital after delivery. Breastfeeding or expressed breast milk feeding, although challenging at times, has abundant benefits for both mothers and babies.

The benefits of breastfeeding or giving expressed breast milk are vast and have both short- and long-term impacts. One of the most fascinating things about breast milk is that it constantly changes to provide the baby with exactly what they need. In addition, breast milk is full of antibodies from the mother’s immune system that protect the infant from illnesses, including ear infections, diarrhea, lower respiratory tract infections, and even everyday colds that the baby is exposed to at home and daycare. This effect is additive; the longer infants receive breastmilk, the lower their infection risk. Fewer infections not only mean a healthy baby but, for working mothers and families, fewer missed work days. Receiving any amount of breast milk is also protective against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the unexplained death of an otherwise well infant that is usually related to sleep. Some benefits last well beyond when a baby feeds at the breast or receives expressed breastmilk and stays with the child throughout their lifetime. These include a lower risk of asthma, eczema, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, obesity, and even leukemia.

Breastfeeding not only benefits infants; there are also many wonderful benefits for mothers. It causes the release of oxytocin in a woman’s brain. This amazing hormone, known as the love hormone, promotes bonding between mothers and their babies. Some studies show that, for some women, this can be protective against post-partum depression. This same hormone also causes uterine contractions while breastfeeding, which can shorten the time of normal vaginal bleeding post-partum. Long-term benefits of breastfeeding for women include a lower risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type two diabetes. Like infants, the longer the duration of breastfeeding, the lower the risk.

Convenience is another great benefit of breastfeeding. A mother can breastfeed anytime, anywhere, at no cost, and the milk is always at the perfect temperature. Supplies like electric breast pumps, which are used to express breast milk, are covered by insurance and can be obtained with paperwork and some assistance from a doctor. In addition, breast pumps are often beneficial for working mothers who desire to continue expressing milk for their babies once they return to work.

Because of these numerous benefits and their additive effects, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastmilk feeding for the first six months and continued breastmilk feeding for two years or longer as mother and baby desire. It is well-recognized that this is challenging, especially for first-time mothers. Some early challenges are difficulty with latch, pain, or concern about having enough milk, but these can usually be remedied with assistance from lactation specialists. For some women, the support to continue breastfeeding can be a challenge. Many birth hospitals and community organizations have free groups to provide peer-to-peer support and education for breastfeeding mothers. What women need to realize is that these trials are common and expected. If mothers can stick with it for the first few weeks, many of these challenges can be overcome and managed, and they will see a beautiful relationship blossoming with their babies. This breastfeeding relationship not only more closely bonds mother and baby, but it sets them both on a path for a healthier future.

People of
Louisiana

Jordyn Vicknair
SCHOOLS

Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal
MILITARY

Jordyn Vicknair

SCHOOLS

Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal

MILITARY

RECIPE

from the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion

Indulge in a Taste of Louisiana with this fresh strawberry pound cake recipe!

LFF_Blog_April2023_Recipe_StrawberryShortCake

Memorable Verse

April 2023

THE FIRST DOGS

April 2023

It’s a great day to stop and smell the roses!

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

March 16, 2023

Feature: Oh, the Places You’ll Go… Because of Reading!

Oh the Places You’ll Go…
Because of Reading!

by Mrs. DeEtte Wick

Oh, the Places You’ll Go… Because of Reading!

By Mrs. DeEtte Wick

Lincoln Parish Schools

In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, March has become National Reading Month which provides schools across America and Louisiana a chance to celebrate reading. Reading Dr. Seuss’ books has become a rite of passage for children. His rhythm and rhyme have captivated young readers for generations. As I reflect on the works of Dr. Seuss, I cannot help but think about his book, Oh, The Places You’ll Go! This exciting book encourages readers to imagine and dream about the world, and what the future holds. Like this book, reading can transport us anywhere and open doors to new ideas, possibilities, and experiences. Today’s busy world offers many distractions, and reading reduces stress and improves concentration. Reading teaches, reading inspires and reading changes lives.

It is my opinion that people who do not like reading have yet to find the right book. I believe these words, I teach these words, and I live these words. As a fifth grader, I did not like to read. It was boring, and I wanted nothing to do with it. Then, I discovered Avonlea in Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, and my world changed. Anne Shirley’s kindred spirit spoke to me. Her creativity, friendships, adventures, and wit transported me to another world and led to the beginning of my love for reading. I want my students to find their book, the one that changes reading from an assignment to joy.

Dystopian novels are always a favorite, as they prompt students to imagine a completely different world, a “what if?” Historical fiction transports students to another time. Fantasy books are perfect for dreamers – students who want to escape to a whole new world. What is most powerful is when students find a character with which they can identify. Realistic fiction can make readers feel seen or known and understand they are not alone. Watching students light up when the right book is in their hands is one of the many highlights of my job. Dr. Seuss wrote, “You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax; all you need is a book.” The right book can literally change a person’s life.

Can a book a day keep the doctor away? Quite possibly. Reading each day has been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, and help with relaxation. Reading is one of the brain’s most complex processes requiring significant attention and focus. When readers focus on a book, they can take a break from the stress of real life. And we all need a break. This escape from stress helps decompress our minds and makes reading a great activity before bed. Turning off the screens and opening a book lets the mind let go of everything else. Consistent time spent reading helps to train the brain to focus, and that focus carries over into other areas of life. Students that struggle with feelings of alienation and loneliness also benefit when they can turn off the stress of life for a while; reading provides this escape. The bottom line? Reading is just what the doctor ordered.

As a teacher, parents often ask me how they can help their children with school. The answer is easy: read. Reading improves comprehension, vocabulary, and writing. When students read books, they are exposed to new and different places, experiences, and ideas. As a student reads, their brains create places to store this information. Whether reading fiction or nonfiction, students are increasing their knowledge capacity. This knowledge can be applied throughout multiple school subjects and improves comprehension of new content. Vocabulary learned in the context of reading makes more sense than words learned in isolation. As a child’s vocabulary grows through reading, they can use those words in their writing and speaking. Reading also helps improve writing. The more students read, the more they are exposed to varying sentence structures, writing styles, and organization. These skills directly correlate to how a student learns to write and improves their writing. It all comes back to reading. Then, there is the question every student wants to ask, “When will I use this in real life?” Reading connects to comprehension, vocabulary, and communication; every job on their dream list requires them to communicate effectively. Reading fundamentally sets children up for the rest of their lives. It’s almost magic!

While schools celebrate reading this month, reading doesn’t begin or end in March. In my classroom, we will read as much as we can all year long. While the benefits of reading seem endless, a child lost in a book is simply a joy, as all the benefits of reading are happening without them even knowing. Dr. Seuss said it best, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go,” – Oh, how exciting it is to watch the places these children go!

-Mrs. DeEtte Wick
Lincoln Parish Schools
Phillips Laboratory School
8th grade English, Language Arts, and Social Studies Teacher
2020-2021 Lincoln Parish Teacher of the Year

March 15, 2023

Blog – March 2023

BLOG OF FIRST LADY OF LOUISIANA DONNA EDWARDS

Are Public Libraries
Still Relevant?

March 2023

March is National Reading Month. As a former educator, this subject is dear to me. So let’s talk about a crucial aspect of reading: our Public Libraries. In today’s fast-access internet driven world, are public libraries still relevant? Absolutely.

Visiting the public library can remind you of past experiences. I fondly remember searching for books to add to my list for the Summer Reading Challenge. Did anyone else rent VHS tapes and DVDs from their library? I definitely remember a feeling of pride after getting my very own library card and using it to check out books. I loved the excitement generated when the librarian stamped my newly found treasures.

We now live in a digital world of convenience with so many virtual platforms for us to engage. I have lost count of the media streaming platforms available, and I absolutely utilize digital and audible books. With all of the convenience available to us through a click, are our public libraries still relevant? Here are a few reasons to make the case that our libraries are not only relevant…but necessary!

Support for Education

Public libraries offer so much more than book rental services. They provide essential resources used for educational and business purposes, such as high-speed internet access, computers, e-books, printers, and various other tech gadgets. The global pandemic we recently experienced heightened the realization that not everyone has access to wi-fi and internet services. Additionally, not everyone owns a home computer. Our public libraries have these vital resources available to everyone free of charge. Most public libraries also offer literacy and homework support, story-time, afterschool and summer learning programming, teen spaces and study rooms, job training, and other employment services.

Capturing History As it Occurs

Did you know that public libraries were not always free to everyone? In 1731 Ben Franklin’s “Library Company.” was founded. The Library Company was created to share and trade books exclusive to upper-class white men. In the early 1800’s black literary societies began emerging primarily among African American men. This movement grew to include everyone, and members paid dues and met regularly to encourage and improve reading, writing, and speaking skills. Black literacy societies led the way for early social justice and human rights reforms.

The National Association For Colored Women’s Club (NACWC) was formed in 1896. This group of women delivered books to children in rural communities who lacked access to books otherwise. This movement spurred the invention of the “Bookmobile“! These mobile libraries traveled to rural areas to promote literacy and advocate for more public libraries. The advocacy of this group is recognized as the beginning of today’s public library system.

Building and Sustaining Healthy Communities

According to the American Library Association (ALA), there are more public libraries in America than Starbucks! Libraries often serve as community hubs that support and empower local community members’ social, political, and personal well-being. Libraries serve as refuges providing safe shelter from open to closing hours for vulnerable populations such as children and those facing housing insecurities. Our libraries also preserve and house historical records readily available to the public. Social services, health information, and programs are often facilitated and hosted at public libraries. Workshops, training, and information are offered to vulnerable populations such as senior citizens, language learners, job seekers, people with disabilities, and many more. And our public libraries help us “reduce, reuse, and recycle”. By making our public library resources “rentable”, we can reduce environmental harm by buying fewer books and reusing those offered from the library.

Free!

As the cost of living continues to rise, public libraries remain one of the few free spaces that provide public resources catering to the most diverse demographics: toddlers, people facing housing insecurity and unemployment, people with disabilities, students, senior citizens, educators, parents, and caregivers. Everyone can access countless resources and services free of charge.

It is important to note: public libraries receive most of their funding from the local (city, county, and district) government and smaller portions from the state and federal government. Pay attention to your local and off-cycle elections. Library millage renewals and taxes used to support these necessary institutions can fly under the radar.

One of the best ways to keep public library doors open is to support and patronize them. So during March, National Reading Month, patronize your local library. Obtain or renew your library card. Thank a Librarian – and READ!

If you need help locating your local public library, please visit this website. I hope you have a memorable adventure getting lost in reading a book.

God bless,

Are Public Libraries Still Relevant?

March 2023

Support for Education

Capturing History As it Occurs

Building and Sustaining Healthy Communities

Free!

If you need help locating your local public library, please visit this website. I hope you have a memorable adventure getting lost in reading a book.

God bless,

FEATURE

Oh, the Places You’ll Go… Because of Reading!

Mrs. DeEtte Wick

Lincoln Parish Schools

FEATURE

Oh, the Places You’ll Go… Because of Reading!

Mrs. DeEtte Wick

Lincoln Parish Schools

LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

Celebrating Women & Music

My Community Cares Initiative
to Expand Statewide

LACAC Continues Partnership with the Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention

https://youtu.be/04ZoezwRB8I

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

Have you ever wondered what the inside of the Governor’s Mansion looks like? If so, come along on a virtual tour with First Lady Donna H. Edwards as she speaks of the rich history within the Mansion walls.

In person tours are available on Tuesday and Thursday at 10 am for community groups and schools. Contact mansiontours@la.gov to check availability.

Women’s Health

LIVING WELL THROUGH PROPER NUTRITION

by Dedra G. King

Eating a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables can promote healthier living.

Proper nutrition starts with making informed choices that improve health. The benefits of a healthy diet not only include disease prevention and increased energy, but it also increases overall wellness. It is important for women to have access to healthy foods that are affordable. Being informed and knowing your individual needs can assist in developing better eating habits.

A Woman’s Nutritional Health
Women have unique nutritional needs during different stages of life. The average calorie needs for women are between 1600 – 2400 per day. This varies based on physical activity, age, height, and weight. A woman’s metabolism differs from a man’s; women tend to have less muscle and more body fat.

Young Adults. More calories are needed for growth and development during these years and usually decrease after age 25.

Pregnancy. Since the proper nutrients are essential to the development of a growing baby, pregnant women need folic acid, iron, protein, and calcium in their diet. Nursing mothers must also eat a healthy diet and increased water intake.

Menopause. The risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and osteoporosis increases after menopause.

Women going through menopause should consult their healthcare provider for guidance on proper diet and prevention.

Benefits of Proper Nutrition

Good source of essential vitamins and minerals
Reduces and prevents chronic disease
Helps to maintain a healthy weight
Influences family members to eat healthier
Energy source

Dietary Guidelines for Healthy Living (MyPlate.gov)

Vegetables – 2 ½ cups eq/day
Fruit – 2 cups eq/day
Grains – 6 ounces eq/day
Dairy – 3 cups eq/day
Protein – 5 ½ ounces eq/day
Oils – 27 grams/day
Calorie limit (other) – 240 kcal/day

Small Steps to Living Well

Gradually add a fruit or vegetable to each meal
Create a grocery list with healthy options
Drink water with lemon instead of sugary drinks
Reach for a healthy snack such as nuts, fruit, or low-fat cheese
Increase fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and potassium intake
Limit foods with added sugar
Eat a variety of food from all different food groups (fruit, vegetables, grains, dairy, and protein)
Reduce sodium intake
Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in saturated fat

Living a healthy lifestyle begins with small steps. Staying informed about your health is a great way to make gradual changes and make healthier food choices. As you implement these recommendations, you are on your way to living a well-balanced life.

Websites for additional resources

CDC.gov
https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/healthy-eating-tips/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fnccdphp%2Fdnpao%2Ffeatures%2Fnational-nutrition-month%2Findex.html

Dietaryguidelines.gov
https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2021-03/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans-2020-2025.pdf

Women’s Health.gov
https://www.womenshealth.gov/healthy-eating/healthy-eating-and-women

People of
Louisiana

Tamela Phillips
SCHOOLS

Vietnam War Commemoration
MILITARY

Tamela Phillips

SCHOOLS

Vietnam War Commemoration

MILITARY

RECIPE

from the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion

These cookies are a triple threat: delicious, healthy and easy to make! In honor of National Reading Awareness Month, make yourself a plateful of these cookies, find a cozy corner, and snuggle in with that book you’ve been promising yourself!

Memorable Verse

March 2023

THE FIRST DOGS

March 2023

Puppy kisses and four-leaf clover wishes!

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

February 9, 2023

Feature: Building on a Legacy – Advancing Education and Opportunity

Building on a Legacy – Advancing Education and Opportunity

by Dr. Kim Hunter Reed

Building on a Legacy –
Advancing Education and Opportunity

By Dr. Kim Hunter Reed
Commissioner of Higher Education

As an educator committed to talent development in Louisiana and across this country, my Black History Month thoughts honor education trailblazers and reflect my commitment to build upon the legacy of their work. Education is transformational for individuals and families. That reality propels us to expand educational opportunities for all of our citizens. It’s why we set a state goal of having 60% of our population holding a higher education credential of value by 2030. Today we sit at 47.8%, but African Americans lag the statewide degree attainment rate by more than 10 percentage points. This gap highlights the critical work we must do to ensure that access and opportunity exist for all citizens, regardless of race or place. To reach our goal we must more than double the number of credentials earned annually in our state, erase equity gaps and support student success. The numbers hold us accountable by measuring our progress, but it’s the people who are our focus – people who need a strong education-to-employment pipeline to move from poverty to prosperity.

Mary McLeod Bethune was a woman who understood the power of education. She was first in her family to be born free, in the late 1800s, and to receive a formal education. A skilled activist and presidential adviser, her calling was to pay it forward, so with meager funds – $1.50 – but unlimited faith, she opened a school for African American girls in 1904. From these beginnings, her school went on to become Bethune-Cookman College, a Historically Black College (HBCU), and she served as the college’s president. Visiting her home on her college campus, I touched the desk where she worked and stood in the parlor where she hosted leaders as she advocated for education, healthcare and opportunities for women. I spoke to her granddaughters (pictured here) about her relentless commitment to education, equity and opportunity. A women of countless firsts, she is a trailblazer who understood the connection between learning and social mobility and so much more, and used this understanding to improve the lives of so many.

To bring this opportunity to our students, particularly the equipment needed to support career and technical courses, we deployed mobile labs, which now visit high schools across the state. The labs are praised for their utility and effectiveness in getting college-level experiences to high school students. It’s a concept I saw first-hand at another HBCU. This was not a new shiny mobile lab parked out front at Tuskegee University, but a historical one in the museum honoring George Washington Carver. I knew and admired him as an agricultural powerhouse, scientist and inventor, “The Father of the Peanut Industry.” I had heard of his outreach efforts to farmers in communities near and far, but I was delighted to see the “movable school” he created to teach responsible farming practices, fertilization, and preservation of fruits and so much more. Hailed in its time as an effective way to bring lessons to people, it is still a practice whose value is proven today across Louisiana and the nation.

Whether our students come to a college or university campus or if we bring the learning to them, progress hinges on access to strong, high-quality education that prepares citizens for viable careers and prosperity. I am proud to stand on the shoulders of these African American giants, to learn from them and to answer the call to extend their legacy as fierce advocates for education, equity and talent development. That’s how Louisiana will prosper.

Mary McLeod Bethune

The author (center) with Mary McLeod Bethune's granddaughters

George Washington Carver

Movable School pioneered by George Washington Carver

I had heard of his outreach efforts to farmers in communities near and far, but I was delighted to see the “movable school” he created to teach responsible farming practices, fertilization, and preservation of fruits and so much more. Hailed in its time as an effective way to bring lessons to people, it is still a practice whose value is proven today across Louisiana and the nation.

February 9, 2023

Blog – February 2023

BLOG OF FIRST LADY OF LOUISIANA DONNA EDWARDS

Seeing is Believing
– In Yourself

February 2023

This month, as we celebrate Black History Month, I am reminded of a story told to me by a high school counselor. At a job fair held at a high school, this counselor spoke with a very bright, intelligent senior who told her she wanted to attend Junior College and aspired to be a Personal Care Attendant. The counselor was confused, as this girl was near the top of her class and could easily attend a 4-year college. She asked the senior why she aspired to be a PCA, and the girl replied, “Well, that is what my mom does.” The counselor offered that she should attend nursing school and become a Registered Nurse. The girl replied she had never thought of that.

This high school student was only familiar with what she knew. Her mom had an excellent job and was great at what she did as a PCA, but this young girl had never been introduced to any other career in this field of work. Like so many across our state, her town was small and rural. The exposure and understanding of job opportunities is so important. Representation is even more critical.

Why does it matter if there are leaders in high-powered visible leadership positions who look like us? Research shows that it’s empowering and necessary for minorities to have minority leaders to emulate. It helps us relate. It makes us think, “I can do that, too.” If we see people who look like us in leadership positions, we believe that we could one day be a leader.

One longitudinal study in “Leadership Quarterly” examined the effect of female politicians elected to leadership positions. They found that, over time, more women were likely to be in leadership positions when a woman was elected as their leader. This result showed more females in top and middle management positions in public organizations, and in municipalities where women were elected as leaders – and not even in the same organization!

I am proud of my husband for appointing many female and minority leaders to his executive cabinet. This act profoundly affected the number of women and minority leaders throughout our state’s leadership across all agencies. One of those women in leadership is Dr. Kim Hunter-Reed, Louisiana’s Commissioner of Higher Education. I can only imagine how many women she has influenced over her tenure to want to hold leadership positions like her. Other African American Cabinet leaders are Dr. Courtney Phillips, Secretary of Louisiana Department of Health, Ava Dejoie Cates, Workforce Commissioner, Terri Ricks, Secretary of Department of Children and Family Services, Dr. Chuck Carr-Brown Secretary, Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Kevin Richard Secretary, Louisiana Department of Revenue, Colonel Lamar Davis, Superintendent, Louisiana State Police; Joey Strickland Secretary, Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs who is a Native American and Dr. Shawn Wilson Secretary, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. These are just some African American women and minorities in leadership positions within the Governor’s cabinet and office.

Having people of all races, nationalities, and ethnicities is vital to our state’s progress. Having all people represented in these leadership roles means that all our brothers and sisters of our beloved state are represented at “the table”. It’s important that we all come to “the table” and bring our different points of view, thoughts, and challenges. This is the only way to bring success to all people. When our children see someone who looks like them serving in these roles, they believe they can “Rise Up” to serve in such leadership roles.

I pray that we will all encourage one another to be all we can be. This is how we will bring our state to the level of excellence that we all desire.

Seeing Is Believing – In Yourself

February 2023

I pray that we will all encourage one another to be all we can be. This is how we will bring our state to the level of excellence that we all desire.

FEATURE

BUILDING ON A LEGACY –
ADVANCING EDUCATION AND OPPORTUNITY

Dr. Kim Hunter Reed
Commissioner of Higher Education

FEATURE

BUILDING ON A LEGACY –
ADVANCING EDUCATION AND OPPORTUNITY

Dr. Kim Hunter Reed
Commissioner of Higher Education

I spoke to her granddaughters (pictured here) about her relentless commitment to education, equity and opportunity. A women of countless firsts, she is a trailblazer who understood the connection between learning and social mobility and so much more, and used this understanding to improve the lives of so many.

As we seek to reach our educational goals, one big focus for us is expanding access to dual enrollment. Today almost 29,000 Louisiana students start college in high school and over the past few years we’ve been proud to see an increase of 1,500 African American students participating. To bring this opportunity to our students, particularly the equipment needed to support career and technical courses, we deployed mobile labs, which now visit high schools across the state. The labs are praised for their utility and effectiveness in getting college-level experiences to high school students. It’s a concept I saw first-hand at another HBCU. This was not a new shiny mobile lab parked out front at Tuskegee University, but a historical one in the museum honoring George Washington Carver. I knew and admired him as an agricultural powerhouse, scientist and inventor, “The Father of the Peanut Industry.” I had heard of his outreach efforts to farmers in communities near and far, but I was delighted to see the “movable school” he created to teach responsible farming practices, fertilization, and preservation of fruits and so much more. Hailed in its time as an effective way to bring lessons to people, it is still a practice whose value is proven today across Louisiana and the nation.

LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

Heart Health Month

State Launches Hotline
for Reporting Juvenile Sex Trafficking

Greater New Orleans
Human Trafficking Task Force

Click HERE to purchase your ornament today!

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

The Louisiana Governor’s Mansion Preservation Foundation is excited to introduce the 2023 Christmas ornament celebrating 60 years of the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion. The sunflower has historically been an integral symbol of Louisiana due in large part to Governor Jimmie Davis. When he recorded “You Are My Sunshine,” the sunflower quickly became associated with him and the song. In fact, this legacy is reflected in the foyer of the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion, which showcases a mural hand painted by world-renowned artist, Auseklis Ozols. In the northeast corner of this mural, two symbols honor Governor Jimmie Davis – a guitar and a sunflower to represent this song.

[2] Louisiana Annual Human Trafficking Data Report 2022 – Pursuant to Act 352 of 2021 La Regular Session. Louisiana Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention.

Women’s Health

TEEN DATING VIOLENCE

by Ashlé N. Young

Did you know that February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month? Since 2004, Congress has designated the first week of February as National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Week. However, in 2010, Congress declared Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month each February. The focus calls on communities “to empower teens to develop healthier relationships.”

What is Dating Violence?

Dating violence is physical, sexual, emotional, and/or verbal abuse of one partner by the other partner in a current or former dating relationship. Abusive behavior is any act carried out by one partner to hurt or control the other. Dating violence happens in male/female relationships as well as LGBTQIA+ relationships. Statistics show that approximately 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from a dating partner before they become adults.

Types of dating violence?

Digital Abuse: Using technologies such as texting and social media to bully, harass, stalk, or intimidate a partner.
- Telling you who you can or cannot follow or be friends with on social media
- Texting you often to make you feel like you can’t be away from your phone
- Sending threatening messages or posting negative comments on social sites
- Pressuring you to share passwords
Emotional Abuse: The non-physical behaviors such as threats, insults, and constant check-ins.
- Telling you what to wear or do
- Embarrassing you in front of others intentionally
- Preventing you from seeing or communicating with family and friends
- Blaming abusive or unhealthy behavior on you
Physical Abuse: The intentional, unwanted contact causing injury.
- Hitting, biting, strangling, choking, or kicking
- Threatening to use or using a weapon on you
- Forcing you to have sex or perform sexual acts
Sexual Abuse: The pressure or coercion to do something sexual in nature that you would prefer not to do.
- Forcing someone to have sex or perform sexual acts
- Preventing someone from using protection that could potentially lead to sexually transmitted infections
- Unwanted kissing, touching, rough, or violent sexual activity
- Unwanted sexual advances

How to have a conversation with your youth about dating violence?

As a parent, we tend to avoid difficult conversations with our kids, but we can start discussing healthy relationships before our children get to the dating age. As a former domestic violence advocate, I introduced my son to his hands and safe touch at one and a half years of age. I would constantly shape our morning routine with Hands Are Not for Hitting by Dr. Martine Agassi and the book I Said No! A Kid-to-kid Guide to Keeping Private Parts Private by Zack and Kimberly King. Now that he is five years old, I still quiz him and ask questions during random conversations. I also plan to practice this with my daughter, who will soon turn one. My goal is to constantly provide a safe space where they feel heard without fear.

In day-to-day tasks, you can bring up what healthy vs. unhealthy looks like and try to model it. With this routine, they will constantly feel you are there, even when they fear the repercussions. So, you can ask your child questions about healthy relationships and awareness of dating violence, such as:

What is a healthy relationship? What do you want from the relationship if you were in one?
Are your friends in relationships? If so, what does that relationship look like from the outside? Is it healthy?
What would you do if you experienced or witnessed dating violence? Do you feel that you can be open with me without judgment?

If you feel your teen may be experiencing dating violence, encourage them and make them aware of your support and willingness to help them through it. It’s essential to be clear, not blame them, and be there to help them get additional support. Also, get advice and resources from a domestic violence agency.

How is Louisiana helping with this?

Louisiana has been working to prevent domestic violence by working with students to provide instruction to youth from grades seven through twelve. Louisiana Teen Dating Violence Law LA R.S. 17:81 requires all Louisiana school districts to:

Provide instruction to all school employees having contact with students in such grades relative to the definition of dating violence, dating violence warning signs, and how to address suspected or reported dating violence involving students appropriately.
Include the definition of dating violence in the student code of conduct.
Collect data about the number of incidents of dating violence reported to school employees and the actions taken by school employees to assist victims of dating violence.

Although most districts are still navigating implementation, local domestic violence programs offer support to the community to help with awareness and prevention. If you need additional support, please reach out to your local domestic violence organization for resources to guide the conversation on what to look for and guides on establishing boundaries.

Where to go for help and resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/teendatingviolence/fastfact.html
Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence: https://lcadv.org/programs-resources/
Love Is Respect: https://www.loveisrespect.org/get-involved/tdvam/
National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence: http://www.ncdsv.org
National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence Teen Power and Control Wheel:http://www.ncdsv.org/images/Teen%20P&C%20wheel%20NO%20SHADING.pdf

People of
Louisiana

Rochelle Wilcox
SCHOOLS

Veterans' Online Access
MILITARY

Carolyne Hoyt
COMMUNITY

Rochelle Wilcox

SCHOOLS

Online Access for Veterans

MILITARY

Carolyne Hoyt

COMMUNITY

RECIPE

from the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion

On First Lady Donna Edwards’ first Valentine’s Day married to her sweetheart, Governor John Bel Edwards, she happened upon a heart-shaped waffle maker she just HAD to have. Over 30 years later, their trusty waffle maker still churns out her Family’s Valentine’s dinner!

Try it out and see what you think! Click to download.

LFF_Blog_Feb2023_Recipe_Sweetheart_Waffles

Memorable Verse

Feburary 2023

THE FIRST DOGS

February 2023

Happy Mardi Gras from the first dogs!

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

MEET OUR EDITOR

Delery Rice

January 12, 2023

Feature: National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

National Human Trafficking
Prevention Month

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month! Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has signed a proclamation declaring January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Louisiana. The Governor’s Office and the First Lady’s Office are joining with stakeholders across the state, nation, and world to bolster our efforts in raising awareness of human trafficking. Globally, human trafficking– including forced labor– has been estimated to impact more than 28 million victims of all races, ages, and socioeconomic statuses. [1] In 2021, 932 reported victims received services and support in Louisiana. 65% of victims reported were under 18, and nearly 90% identified as female. [2] Human trafficking is a complex crime. It intersects with many critical social issues of our day, including poverty and inequality, homelessness, and sexual violence. The work of ending human trafficking may seem daunting, yet in Louisiana, research and best-practice remain our guiding light, and the voices of survivors are our driving force.

In 2022, Louisiana continued to elevate victim-centered, trauma-informed, and collaborative approaches to addressing human trafficking and exploitation in our communities. In 2023, we resolve to continue on this work, ensuring greater access and equitability to underserved populations and improving the identification of underreported forms of trafficking – including labor trafficking and family-facilitated trafficking. The Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention, in collaboration with The Office of First Lady Donna Edwards and several key partners, is kicking off the new year 2023 by commemorating Human Trafficking Prevention Month with special events, educational activities, and social media postings that highlight the work of state agencies and the progress made to end this crime. We want to recognize BMF| Beuerman Miller Fitzgerald Public Relations Firm for their longstanding support and assistance in promoting public awareness of human trafficking in Louisiana. Indeed, this work hinges upon the collaboration of diverse partners, from service providers to law enforcement agencies to the business community.

Across the state, non-profit organizations and businesses are hosting events and raising awareness in their communities. We are excited to have the support of the Governor’s Mansion, Caesars Superdome, and Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans, La, which will be lit blue in recognition of Human Trafficking Prevention Month. In addition, January 11th marks National Human Trafficking Day, and we have invited members of the public to participate in raising awareness of human trafficking by wearing blue on this day and sharing pictures on social media with the tag #WearBlueDay. You can follow the Stop Trafficking Louisiana social media accounts @stoptraffla to stay up-to-date on Human Trafficking Prevention Month activities. Also, feel free to visit the Human Trafficking Prevention Resource Center of Louisiana at www.humantrafficking.la.gov to learn more about anti-human trafficking efforts and resources in Louisiana.

[1] Global Estimates of Modern Slavery: Forced Labour and Forced Marriage

International Labour Organization (ILO), Walk Free, and International Organization for Migration (IOM), Geneva, 2022.

January 11, 2023

Blog – January 2023

BLOG OF FIRST LADY OF LOUISIANA DONNA EDWARDS

A New Year

January 2023

Welcome to another new year – a unique year for John Bel and me as we begin the last year of his second term. We are in the HOME STRETCH. It is hard to believe. It feels like yesterday and a lifetime all at once. But it has been a journey we will not forget.

So while we start this new year, I’d like to review what we have accomplished thus far. I will write about a different facet of LFF’s impact each month. I will start with Human Trafficking. The work done through the Louisiana First Foundation has been impactful to so many across our state. I intend to continue this work, and I hope you will all continue supporting our work as we move forward.

January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. In 2016, a diocesan priest, an order of nuns, and a group of concerned citizens approached me to inform me about human trafficking and what was happening in Louisiana. I immediately knew I had to address the issue statewide and added Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness as my third official initiative. Right away, the Governor and I assisted in developing Metanoia Manor – the state’s only residential facility for minor survivors. In addition, we have formed partnerships with many nonprofits working on Human Trafficking, including Covenant House, the United Way, and Empower 225. If you read through the information on this link, you can gather more information on our efforts statewide, nationally, and internationally.

In 2018, I met with the director of the DARE programs. As a result, I introduced, along with the newly formed Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention (GOHTP), an idea to add age-appropriate instruction regarding trafficking to the DARE program. As a result, LFF and the GOHTP began working on the curriculum, approved it at the state and federal levels, and sent it to the DARE office. Their office consequently approved it and the added verbiage to the curriculum.

When the pandemic constrained us in 2020, our office moved to host our regular Human Trafficking Summits online through the Zoom platform. We held six summits in 2020-2021. Our first summit had 237 attendees from 19 states. Our last summit in October of 2022 had over 800 attendees from 28 states, Guam, Australia, and the Vatican. LFF has emerged as a national and international leader on this topic, and through our zoom summits, we connected with First Spouses from across the country who are also working on this issue.

To further elevate the importance of ending this crime, I formed the National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking (NCPHST) in 2021 with First Ladies from six other states. On April 1st, 2022, we held the first NCPHST awareness event. The event sold out in six weeks and had over 500 attendees, including executives from the NCAA, NFL, the US Department of Justice, the Vatican, and several national organizations that address trafficking. In addition, we received a statement of support from the National Basketball Coaches Association. But more importantly, we were able to train over 2,800 hospitality workers, E.M.T.s, Emergency Room staff, and 911 operators. The training provided these people, who are often the first in contact with trafficking victims (many underage), the knowledge and resources to recognize trafficking and get the victims connected to the appropriate resources.

A panel discussion with human trafficking survivors was a feature of the NCPSHT program. Represented among the panel of survivors was the experience of a male survivor. We are well aware that boys are trafficking victims, too. However, their voice is often underrepresented. It was so impactful to hear his perspective. A survivor-led advisory board guides the Human Trafficking Prevention Commission, and the board has one male member. For many reasons, it is much more difficult for male survivors to speak out. Having that male survivor on the panel and providing an outlet to tell his story was impactful in a way I won’t soon forget.

Additionally, I provided my support to partner with Crimestoppers to develop an app, SAFE SCHOOLS LOUISIANA, for students to report instances of trafficking confidentially. This app is available to all schools in Louisiana. You can read more about the app here. Since the app’s introduction in 2019, 415 schools have enrolled, and students have sent in over 1,000 tips. We continue to urge all schools to sign up to use the app.

I was honored with several opportunities to speak internationally about Louisiana’s work to address trafficking, including at the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, a convening with the former Scotland Yard Commissioner of Human Trafficking and the Santa Marta Group. This international reach garnered recognition from the Queen of Sweden, who works diligently on this effort. As a result, our office hosted a delegation from Sweden to share our efforts, resources, and best practices with them. The Louisiana Consular Corps also met with me to address this issue and identify ways to work together to eradicate this heinous crime.

Working closely with the GOHTP, many critical legislative items have been enacted. My office and I worked closely with all involved in these legislative pieces to ensure we were informed, involved, and updated. I encourage you to look through our website and especially encourage you to read through the human trafficking articles in our past issues. We have come so far but still have so far to go.

Again, I thank you for your support through this essential work. It will take all of us to eradicate this crime against humanity. I will continue to help our vulnerable populations in the future as well. I hope you’ll join me.

God Bless,

“In the same way, let your light shine before people,
so they can see the good things you do
and praise your Father who is in heaven.”

Matthew 5:16

A New Year

January 2023

God Bless,

FEATURE

NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING
PREVENTION MONTH

[1] Global Estimates of Modern Slavery: Forced Labour and Forced Marriage

International Labour Organization (ILO), Walk Free, and International Organization for Migration (IOM), Geneva, 2022.

[2] Louisiana Annual Human Trafficking Data Report 2022 – Pursuant to Act 352 of 2021 La Regular Session. Louisiana Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention.

FEATURE

NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING
PREVENTION MONTH

[1] Global Estimates of Modern Slavery: Forced Labour and Forced Marriage

International Labour Organization (ILO), Walk Free, and International Organization for Migration (IOM), Geneva, 2022.

[2] Louisiana Annual Human Trafficking Data Report 2022 – Pursuant to Act 352 of 2021 La Regular Session. Louisiana Governor’s Office of Human Trafficking Prevention.

LOUISIANA FIRST FOUNDATION

Remember Your Why

Grandparents, Relatives and Other Caregivers
Play Important Role in Foster Care

Human Trafficking Awareness Day

GOVERNOR’S MANSION

Be part of history by purchasing a personalized brick at the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion. Personalized bricks have been part of the Governor’s Mansion Preservation Foundation fundraising efforts for almost 30 years and will continue for generations to come. Each brick is customizable and comes with a certificate of purchase. A personalized brick makes an excellent gift for any time of year and gives back to the Foundation that focuses on preserving the Governor’s Mansion.

Email Preservelagovernorsmansion@gmail.com to request a personalized brick today!