NO MORE SECRETS. NO MORE SHAME.

We must break the silence and commit to No More Secrets. No More Shame, creating safe spaces where survivors feel seen, heard, and supported.  April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time dedicated to raising public awareness about sexual assault and abuse, and to educating communities on how to prevent it. It’s a month for survivors to feel seen, heard, and supported, and for all of us to reflect on the work that still needs to be done to create a world free from sexual violence.

Why Does This Month Matter and Why is SAAM Important?

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is not just a campaign. It’s a movement. A collective call to action that reminds us all: survivors deserve to be heard, believed, and supported.

Sexual violence impacts millions of people across all walks of life. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have experienced some form of sexual violence in their lifetime. Sexual assault is a pervasive issue that affects people of all genders, ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The statistics are staggering, and behind each number is a human being who has experienced trauma and pain. SAAM serves as a crucial reminder that:

• Sexual assault is never the victim’s fault. There is no excuse for sexual violence, and blaming the survivor only perpetuates the cycle of abuse.
• Survivors are not alone. Many people have experienced sexual assault, and there are resources and support systems available.
• Prevention is possible. By understanding the root causes of sexual violence and promoting healthy relationships and consent, we can work towards preventing future harm.

What Can You Do This Month (and Beyond)?

Sexual Assault Awareness Month isn’t just about acknowledging the problem; it’s about taking action. Here are some ways you can get involved and make a difference:

• Educate yourself: Learn more about sexual assault, consent, healthy relationships, and the impact of trauma. There are countless resources available online and in your community.
• Speak out: Challenge harmful jokes, stereotypes, and attitudes that contribute to a culture of sexual violence. Use your voice to advocate for change.
• Support survivors: Believe their stories, offer your support, and connect them with resources if they need them. Remember that healing is a personal journey, and your role is to be a supportive presence.
• Get involved in your community: Look for local organizations working to end sexual violence and find out how you can contribute your time, skills, or resources.
• Wear Teal on Teal Day (Tuesday, April 8th): Show your support for survivors and raise awareness by wearing teal, the color of sexual assault awareness.
• Start conversations: Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about sexual assault and consent. Open and honest dialogue is essential for creating change.
• Support organizations that help survivors: Consider donating to or volunteering with local or national organizations that provide support services to survivors of sexual assault.

If You Are a Survivor

Please know: what happened to you is not your fault. You are not alone. There is support available—whether you’re ready to talk now or years from now. Healing is not linear, and there is no “right” way to be a survivor.

Organizations like RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and local advocacy centers offer free, confidential resources.

It Starts With Us

Ending sexual violence is a collective responsibility. It requires each of us to examine our own beliefs and behaviors, to challenge harmful norms, and to actively work towards creating safer and more respectful communities.

This Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let’s commit to breaking the silence, building connected communities, and standing in solidarity with survivors. Together, we can create a future free from sexual violence.

Resources:

• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE or https://www.rainn.org
• The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): https://www.nsvrc.org
• Your local sexual assault support center: Search online for resources in your area.

Let’s use this month as a catalyst for ongoing change. Let’s listen, learn, and act. Let’s build a world where everyone feels safe and respected.