The Indirect Harm – September Spotlight

Child abuse is not always direct. Sometimes, children are harmed through the mistreatment of their parents or guardians. When an adult is denied equitable pay, decent housing, healthy food, reliable healthcare, or fair treatment at work, the injustice doesn’t stop with them—it ripples into the lives of the children who depend on them. Whether through systemic inequities, workplace unfairness, or personal vindictiveness, any harm done to a caregiver often becomes an indirect harm to a child.

This September, we invite you to be mindful. Fairness toward adults—especially those raising children—extends protection to the children themselves. Every act of justice, compassion, and equity strengthens not just individuals, but the families and futures connected to them.

Give yourself the gift of Awareness:

Think of the adults in your life—your colleagues, neighbors, or even strangers—who are raising children or caring for others. Count the times you’ve judged, overlooked, or contributed, even unintentionally, to the challenges they face. Now imagine how those small injustices ripple to the children in their care. Instead of letting unfairness or neglect pass unchecked, replace it with fairness, support, and compassion. Offer a kind word. Check in with someone carrying responsibility for others. Post a note of encouragement and tag @bugandpeg so we can cheer you on. Your thoughtfulness is not weakness—it’s power. And every act of fairness helps protect a child, even if indirectly.