22 Apr Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is observed in April. This is an excellent opportunity to raise public awareness about sexual violence and teach communities how to prevent it. It’s a prevalent issue affecting anyone, including children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly.

Nationwide, 81% of women and 43% of men reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment and/or assault in their lifetime. According to the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network, RAINN, an American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds, and every 9 minutes that victim is a child. Despite these alarming statistics, rape is still the most under-reported crime. In fact, 2 out of 3 of sexual assaults are not reported. And only 33 out of every 1,000 perpetrators will end up in prison.

Each of us has a distinct role to play in preventing violence and altering society. We can establish a culture of respect, equality, and safety by reflecting on and changing how we think and talk about sexual violence. Every one of us can make a difference. Our words have an impact on the world around us. It matters how we communicate about sexual violence.

If you or someone you know has witnessed or been the victim of sexual violence, please call 911 and the National Sexual Assault Network at 1-800-656-HOPE.