Sexual Assault Awareness Month is Here
Today marks the start of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). Though we’re all experiencing a difficult and uncertain time during the COVID-19 crisis, it’s important to still come together, support survivors and help prevent sexual assault. That’s why we’re joining the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and other partners to highlight this year’s theme, I Ask, and champion the message that asking for consent is a healthy, normal and necessary part of life – now and always.
We know that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have experienced sexual violence in their lives. In the past several years, the rise of the #MeToo Movement has brought forth millions of powerful stories, illustrating the widespread impact of sexual assault, harassment and abuse.
It’s time to deepen the discussion around prevention. We can reduce instances of sexual violence by normalizing consent, educating ourselves and our loved ones, and supporting survivors. We can all be part of the solution!
Need some ideas to get started? We’re here to help!
- Visit the NO MORE SAAM page to download your NO MORE/SAAM sign. Take a photo and tag us using the hashtags #SAAM & #IAsk.
- Learn more about consent. What is it? What does it look & sound like? When can a person give consent? What about consenting under the influence? You’ve got questions—we’ve got answers. Check out our Understanding Consent page.
- Messages about consent can’t come too early or often—we can make a difference by talking with children about healthy communication, sexuality, and relationships. Check out the materials from our sister campaign NO MÁS and get the conversation started.
- Have a Zoom or FaceTime call to discuss these issues with friends during April. Talk about how you can prevent sexual violence in your communities and ideas for future events.
- Check out the NSVRC SAAM website for downloadable tools, suggestions and information to activate your communities and networks.
- Watch the PSA we made with our partner 1in6 about male survivors.Sexual assault harms everyone. One in six men will be affected by sexual violence.Recognizing and supporting all survivors is key to eliminating sexual assault.
We hope you will join us this SAAM and beyond in the effort to stop and prevent sexual assault!