Vulnerability, Visibility, Value

Dr. Robert Block, former president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, is known for saying adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are the single greatest unaddressed public health threat facing our nation today. Nationally, more than 46 percent of U.S. youth—34 million children under age 18—have had at least one ACE, and more than 20 percent have had at least two. Dr. Block’s words are a global call to action to us all. By keeping ACEs from occurring in the first place and taking quick action when an ACE happens, communities can help all children and youth reach their full potential.

According to data from the 2016 National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) children of different races and ethnicities do not experience ACEs equally. Nationally, 61 percent of black non-Hispanic children and 51 percent of Hispanic children have experienced at least one ACE, compared with 40 percent of white non-Hispanic children and only 23 percent of Asian non-Hispanic children. In every region, the prevalence of ACEs is lowest among Asian non-Hispanic children and, in most regions, is highest among black non-Hispanic children.

This interactive presentation will provide strategies for people from all sectors of society who can protect and prevent ACEs from happening in the first place and lessen the harmful effects of ACEs that have already occurred. It will also challenge participants to recognize vulnerabilities in the communities they serve. As well as teach participants policies that will protect children in all settings.