Local leaders in Bellaire, Gaylord and Petoskey have proclaimed April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. They join other mayors and leaders throughout the nation who have made similar proclamations. Since 2001, April has been recognized as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month to focus attention on this pervasive crime, educate communities and raise public awareness about sexual assault and how to prevent it.

In a Petoskey News-Review story, Petoskey Mayor John Murphy said, “Whereas the city of Petoskey strongly supports the efforts of national, state and local partners, and of every citizen, to actively engage in public and private efforts to prevent sexual violence, it’s time for all of us to start conversations, take appropriate action and support one another to create a safer environment for all.”

Chris Krajewski, Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan (WRCNM) Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Program Director said, “These local leaders are to be commended on issuing this important proclamation because ending sexual violence starts with each one of us and the actions we choose to take in our everyday lives.

WRCNM provides support, advocacy and counseling services at no cost to survivors of sexual assault in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet and Otsego counties. Last year the nonprofit organization provided support, advocacy and counseling to 190 individuals affected by sexual assault, 47 of whom were age 17 or younger.

For more information or support, call the WRCNM’s 24-hour crisis and information line at (231) 347-0082, (800) 275-1995 or visit wrcnm.org.