Sexual Assault Awareness Month

 April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. There is a group that has a lot of great information on this topic, and it is called the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC). There is a lot of great information on their website at nsvrc.org. I would hope you take the time to visit their site. The reason that there is an awareness month is because sexual violence can be stopped if we all speak out and work together. Sexual violence thrives when we stay silent.

Throughout the month of April, NSVRC has offered all kinds of ways to get involved. Just some of the ways listed on their website are: Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Pinterest. Use #SAAM, #SexualAssaultAwarenessMonth, or #SexualAssaultAwareness to post on social media. Another way to participate this month is to wear the color teal to honor survivors and keep the conversation going. In April and every month after, people across the country are encourage to embrace their voices to show support for survivors, and speak out if they have experienced sexual assault themselves. One month isn't enough time to solve this serious issue, but it's a place to start. On the website "National Day Calendar" they give some astounding statistics:

1. Nearly 1 in 5 women in the U.S. have experienced rape (or attempted rape)

2. Every 98 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted

3. Only 5 out of every 1000 perpetrators will end up in prison.

4. The majority of sexual assaults happen at or near the victim's home, often by someone they know.

5. Rape is the most under-reported crime; 63% of sexual assaults are not reported

This month the Student Ambassadors have taken up the challenge to make everyone aware of sexual violence and assault. We will have a jeans day at the end of this month and have opportunities to discuss this very sensitive topic. Sexual assault is a horrific problem, but the good news is that prevention is possible, and it's happening more and more. By ending the stigma and continuing support and awareness, sexual assaults have been decreasing each year. 

It is time to end the silence on sexual violence. Please speak up if you see one of your friends in a violent relationship. Please come see me if you are in that type of relationship, or if you aren't sure but have concerns. There is help and I want to help you. You do not need to take this abuse. Help a friend before it is to late and remember once is too many times.