Kaw Naiton and Blackwell P.D. set to host teen dating seminar March 4

by Charles Gerian

The Blackwell Police Department will once again be co-sponsoring the Kaw Nation Domestic Violence Program’s “Love is Respect” teen dating seminar next week, March 4, at the Blackwell Event Center.

The annual program encourages healthy dating and relationships, and brings awareness to topics such as empowerment, body positivity, and more as part of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.

Last year, Kay County teens were served pizza and received prizes in drawings while members of the Kaw Nation discussed healthy relationships, and asked for audience input on the proper way to handle or address scenarios such as sexting, dating red flags, assault, and other dangers including self defense against those situations.

Blackwell Chief of Police Dewayne Wood stated he and the Blackwell P.D. were more than happy to assist the Kaw Nation with the event again this year. Space is limited for the event, and masks will be provided. Along with prize giveaways, food will also be served, and the event is free of charge.

The Kaw Nation is requesting that those interested call them at (580) 362-1098. Kaw Nation’s Domestic Violence Program states their their goal is to “break the pattern, envision change, empower hope” as they provide victim advocacy, traditional cultural healing, children’s group counseling, a 24-hour crisis line, and protective order/ legal assistance.