State Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil last week announced the passage of Senate Resolution 100, officially proclaiming April 16, 2026, as “Breaking the Silence Day of Awareness” in California.
“As the author of this resolution, I felt a solemn sense of purpose,” said Alvarado-Gil, a survivor of sexual abuse. “While April is recognized nationwide as Child Abuse Prevention Month, child sexual abuse remains one of the most hidden and devastating crimes.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys experience sexual abuse during childhood. The vast majority never report it due to fear, shame, stigma, and pressure from their abusers. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network notes that only a small fraction of cases are ever reported.
“I blamed my mother for so many years for not protecting me; I blamed my mother for so many years for causing our family to break, and for me to go into foster care,” said Alvarado-Gil. “But I have a message for those mothers, because I have since forgiven her, and want to share that regardless of whether you are a victim of abuse, a member of the family, or did everything in your adult power to break the silence or break the cycle, you are forgiven and you are loved.”
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, more than 90 percent of victims know their abuser. Intrafamilial abuse and incest create deep layers of secrecy and coercion, often resulting in lifelong mental health impacts such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress.
"Today, I call on all Californians, lawmakers, families, educators, healthcare professionals, and communities, to break the silence. We must reduce stigma, expand training, increase awareness, and ensure survivors receive the support they need to heal," Alvarado-Gil added. "Our children deserve to grow up safe and heard. There can be no excuses or halfway measures. By recognizing April 16, 2026, as 'Breaking the Silence Day of Awareness,' California stands with survivors, honors their courage, and reaffirms our commitment to protecting every child.”
Gray, with help of GOP allies, sends three bills to Senate
Rep. Adam Gray (D-Merced) passed three bipartisan bills last week – bills he believes will be particularly beneficial to residents of the Central Valley.
All three bills, introduced with a Republican co-lead, passed on the House floor with support from both Democrats and Republicans. The legislation now advances to the Senate for further consideration.
“I came to Congress to get things done for the Central Valley,” said Gray. “This shows that despite partisan gridlock and politics as usual in Washington, it is possible to find common ground on issues and deliver meaningful legislation that will expand access to telehealth in rural communities, address wildfire-related air quality challenges, and lower energy costs. I will work with anyone to deliver results and find solutions to the issues facing the Valley.”
The Telehealth Network and Telehealth Resource Centers Grant Program Reauthorization Act, introduced alongside Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford), authorizes funding for the Telehealth Network Grant Program through 2030, that will allow families in rural areas like California’s Central Valley will have access to care.
The Fire Improvement and Reforming Exceptional Events (FIRE) Act, introduced alongside Rep. Gabe Evans (R-Colorado), seeks to make sure that states are not punished for the smoke and emissions they cannot control, while still maintaining strong environmental protections.
The Harnessing Energy at Thermal Sources (HEATS) Act, introduced alongside Rep. Young Kim (R-Anaheim Hills), is aimed at streamlining geothermal energy development and production and decrease energy costs.
Gray, who is seeking a second term representing the 13th Congressional District, recently picked up a key endorsement from the California Farm Bureau.
