Sexual Assualt Awareness Month



Sexual assault is a pervasive issue in our communities. It does not exist in isolation but is part of a larger context and culture of violence in the United States and around the globe.

This April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), the New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NYSCADV) recognizes that it will take ending all forms of oppression to end sexual harassment, assault, and abuse. The theme of Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2024 is “Building Connected Communities.” Building Connected Communities helps us reduce the likelihood of sexual abuse, assault, and harassment in our communities. Any space where people come together is a community, whether in neighborhoods, workplaces, campuses, organizations, or online spaces.

NYSCADV remains committed to working alongside our sister coalitions, the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Assault (NYSCASA,) the Seven Dancers Coalition, and our state partners and allies to address and prevent sexual assault in our communities and address the systems of oppression such as racism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, ageism, and ableism contribute to higher sexual harassment, assault, and abuse rates.

NYSCADV will engage in virtual activities throughout SAAM to show support and increase public awareness and education. Want to get involved? Here are some things you can do:

• Participate in SAAM Day of Action by Wearing Teal on April 2nd.
• Participate in the #30DaysofSAAM Challenge.
• Wear Denim on Denim Day, April 24th, and share on social media.
• Join the Start by Believing Campaign.
• Start a campaign in your school, workplace or other group focusing on SAAM.

For more information on SAAM and ideas to show your support, click here.

Learn more.

Financial Literacy Month

In April, NYSCADV acknowledges Financial Literacy Month, emphasizing the profound link between financial literacy, economic empowerment, and the harsh reality of domestic violence. Nearly every case of domestic abuse involves some form of financial manipulation. Abusers exert control by limiting access to finances, ensnaring victims in a cycle of dependence and fear.

The journey to empower survivors of domestic violence starts with financial literacy. Survivors can reclaim autonomy over their lives by understanding their rights and available resources. However, for many, this path toward economic independence is obstructed by the calculated deprivation of financial means by their abusers.

Mark your calendars for June 11, 2024, as NYSCADV hosts its inaugural Economic Empowerment Summit. This significant event will explore the transformative potential of Economic Justice as a catalyst for survivors to rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience after experiencing abuse. The summit will equip advocates with essential skills and resources, fostering pathways to economic independence and workforce development and highlighting the critical connection between financial stability and mental well-being. Click here to learn more about NYSCADV’s Economic Empowerment work.

In honor of Financial Literacy Month, NYSCADV has released a podcast episode discussing Financial Literacy and Economic Empowerment in the context of domestic violence. Click here to listen.

Learn more.

Family Strength and Support Month

Formerly recognized as Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Month, this month-long campaign aims to spotlight simple yet impactful actions that can transform the lives of children by bolstering families and communities. At the heart of child abuse prevention lies the mission to dismantle barriers to healthy parenting. Individuals demonstrate a collective commitment to support and nurture every child's well-being by actively engaging with families in their communities. Throughout April, our partners at Prevent Child Abuse New York (PCANY) spearheads a crucial initiative: Family Strength and Support Month. Click here for more information on how you can raise awareness.

Learn more.