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Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to focus on the ongoing problem of sexual assault, abuse, and harassment and to work together to create communities where this violence does not happen. By working together, we can lift the structural obstacles that feed into individual challenges for so many survivors and create better communities for everyone.
According to statistics, an alarming number of people in the US experience sexual violence at some point in their lives. As a result, many we come into contact with on a daily basis — friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members — are likely survivors.
Research shows that connected communities play a crucial role in lowering the risk of sexual violence. Together, we can help end it by creating strong community connections and establishing a network of support, empathy, and understanding.
Below are actionable steps to help cultivate connected communities and contribute to sexual violence prevention:
- Raise Awareness, Promote Education & Teach Consent:
Start conversations about the prevalence of sexual assault and the importance of consent, respectful relationships, and bystander intervention. Advocate for clear reporting mechanisms in workplaces, schools, and colleges, fostering a culture that supports survivors and ensures they can report confidentially. - Build Safe & Thriving Communities:
Participate in inclusive events that bring community members together, fostering a sense of value and connection for everyone. Advocate for policies and initiatives that support survivors and address sexual assault prevention. - Amplify the Voices of Survivors:
Engage with organizations providing support services to survivors of sexual assault, ensuring accessible help for those in need. - Foster a Culture of Respect:
Encourage businesses, healthcare practitioners, law enforcement, and community organizations to prioritize creating safe spaces, recognizing signs of abuse, and responding effectively.
Together we can make a meaningful impact and create a safer community for everyone.
Women’s Resource Center of Northern Michigan – Call 24/7 (800) 275-1995 or (231) 347-0082 • wrcnm.org
Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians – Call Monday-Friday 8-5 (231) 242-1628 • ltbbodawa-nsn.gov