As a survivor of sexual assault, I know firsthand the pain, fear, and trauma that comes with such an experience. Sexual assault is a crime that has impacted far too many people, and its effects can last a lifetime. But this April, during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we are focusing on something different. We are talking about prevention, equity, and respect.
The theme for this year’s campaign is “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity.” This message is more important now than ever before. We know that sexual assault affects people of all races, genders, and socioeconomic backgrounds, but we also know that certain groups are at a higher risk than others. We must take a hard look at the systems and institutions that perpetuate this inequality, and we must work together to change them.
As a survivor, I know that it can be difficult to find hope in the aftermath of sexual assault. But I also know that prevention is possible, and that it demands equity. We must work to create a world where everyone is respected, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status. We must work to break down the barriers that prevent survivors from coming forward and receiving the support and resources they need. And we must work to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
If you are a survivor of sexual assault, know that you are not alone. There are people and organizations out there that can help you heal and move forward. It is not your fault, and you deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. If you know someone who has been impacted by sexual assault, be there for them. Listen to them, believe them, and support them in any way you can.
There are numerous organizations that can help people recover from and address sexual assault, including:
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center
- Joyful Heart Foundation
- National Alliance to End Sexual Violence
- It’s On Us
- National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA)
- National Women’s Law Center
- MaleSurvivor
- Black Women’s Blueprint
- SurvJustice
- Me Too Movement
- Helping Survivors
It’s important to note that these organizations may offer different types of support, such as counseling services, legal assistance, or advocacy. It’s best to explore different options and find the organization that best meets your needs.
This April, let’s work together to draw connections, build equity, and prevent sexual assault. Let’s create a world where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected. We can make a difference, but it starts with each and every one of us.