When is Sexual Assault Awareness Month?
April 2023: A Timely Reminder to Speak Up and Support Survivors
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a dedicated period to educate the public about sexual assault, its impact on victims, and the importance of creating a culture of respect, consent, and inclusivity. The month-long observance is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities to come together, raise awareness, and demonstrate support for survivors of sexual assault.
A Dark Reality: The Scope of Sexual Assault
More than 1 in 5 women and 1 in 71 men experience sexual assault at some point in their lifetime.
• According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), approximately 46% of female victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) experienced sexual assault and/or stalking by an intimate partner.
• The same study found that 24% of male victims experienced sexual assault and/or stalking by an intimate partner.
• Rape is the most underreported crime in the United States, with only 33% of reported rapes in 2018 being found to be reported to police.
What Is Sexual Assault Awareness Month About?
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an ongoing effort to raise awareness, promote education, and bring attention to the importance of creating a society where consent is valued, and where everyone feels safe and respected.
Key Goals of Sexual Assault Awareness Month:
• Education and Empowerment: Providing tools and resources to empower survivors to share their stories and feel supported.
• Ending Stigma and Silence: Breaking down the silence that often surrounds sexual assault by encouraging open conversations and using inclusive language.
• Creating a Culture of Respect: Encouraging society to adopt a culture where consent is respected, and where everyone is valued.
How to Get Involved and Make a Difference
There are many ways to participate in Sexual Assault Awareness Month and support the cause:
Organized Events:
• Organize or participate in charity runs, walks, bike rides, or other fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for local organizations or national campaigns.
• Plan or attend events like community rallies, film screenings, or art exhibitions that tackle the issue of sexual assault.
Social Media:
• Share information and resources on social media to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
• Use hashtags such as #SAAM or #SexualAssaultAwarenessMonth to show support and solidarity.
• Share personal stories, raise awareness about specific issues related to sexual assault, or highlight the work of survivor advocates.
Advocacy and Support:
• Contact local organizations and advocacy groups to offer volunteer support or donations.
• Encourage friends and family members to speak up against sexual assault and support survivor advocates.
• Attend seminars, workshops, or other educational events to learn more about sexual assault and become a better ally.
Conclusion:
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an essential initiative that promotes understanding, empathy, and change. By educating ourselves about the issue, speaking openly about it, and demonstrating support for survivors, we can create a culture of respect and inclusivity where everyone feels valued and supported.
Remember: Silence is Not Consent. Survivors Are Not Alone. We Are All in This Together.
[Information and resources are available online at organizations such as NSVRC, Rape Abuse Incest National Network (RAINN), and The Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC).]