Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. During this month space is held to promote open conversations about sexual violence, prevention education, and healing for survivors. Sexual violence is a crime that can affect anyone regardless of age, race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion.
According to the CDC, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetime. Additionally, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys experience sexual abuse during their childhood.
People with disabilities are at least three times more likely to be sexually assaulted than people without disabilities, and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are seven times more likely to be sexually assaulted (Vera Institute, 2017).
According to the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey, nearly 50% of transgender people reported experiencing sexual violence in their lifetime. These rates are even higher for transgender people of color and those who have done sex work, experienced homelessness, or have (or had) a disability.
Raising awareness is one way of getting involved in the anti-sexual violence movement. You can also choose to volunteer at your local Sexual Assault Center, educate your self on the topic, and share this information with family, friends, and social media outlets. Together we can make a difference and stop sexual violence.
