April marks Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (#SAAPM). It’s a time to get involved in the conversation about sexual violence, share important resources and take action. This month RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is highlighting five ways to speak up and speak out about sexual violence:
Step in. We all have the opportunity to look out for someone else’s safety. It’s often easier than you think to make a difference in someone’s life. Use the C.A.R.E. method to de-escalate a situation: create a distraction, ask directly, refer to an authority, and enlist others.
–> Use the C.A.R.E. method the next time you’re out with friends.
Support survivors. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, it’s never too late to show your support. Become familiar with free resources like the National Sexual Assault Hotline, which operates 24/7 at 800.656.HOPE(4673) and online.rainn.org. RAINN also offers Spanish-language services at rainn.org/es.
–> Share the National Sexual Assault Hotline with a friend or loved one.
Educate others. Speak up and share information about sexual assault. Host a conversation with your community, student group, or team or share RAINN’s free materials at your next event to help further people’s understand of the issue. Sharing statistics about the reality of sexual violence and practical ways to stop sexual assault can go a long way in making a difference.
–> Request and distribute RAINN’s free print materials.
Take action. Your voice matters; it matters to policy makers, and it especially matters to survivors of sexual violence. Encourage your Members of Congress to support legislation that supports survivors, facilitates justice and keeps our communities safe, like the Justice For All Reauthorization Act of 2016 (S. 2575 and HR 4602).
–> Visit the RAINN Action Center to support timely bills, funding decisions, and calls to action.
Donate. RAINN believes in making every dollar count. In fact, 92 cents of every single dollar goes directly to preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors.
–> Make a one-time or recurring donation to RAINN.
From taking action to keep your friends safe, to supporting survivors, and advocating for policy changes, you can help change the way people think about their role in responding to and preventing sexual assault.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. The National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) is a helpful resource for those who have been affected by sexual violence. Learn more at rainn.org.