April Is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Safe Place Sexual Assault Center is sharing a message regarding the prevalence of sexual assault, rape, and abuse.

Every 98 seconds a sexual assault occurs in the United States. Sexual violence is an all-encompassing, non-legal term that refers to crimes like sexual assault, rape and sexual abuse. Safe Place Sexual Assault Center, a division of Safe Passage, Inc. is committed to offering hope, healing and empowerment for survivors of sexual violence in Southeastern Indiana while offering education and prevention services to the community. Dealing with the aftermath of sexual assault is often a long, emotional process for a survivor and their loved ones. We provide advocacy, support groups and resources to those who have been sexually assaulted anytime in their life. Our services are free of charge and our HelpLine is available 24/7 at 812.932.7233 (SAFE). 

Consent is one piece of the puzzle in helping reduce sexual violence. Consent is two parties agreeing to engage in sexual activity. We at Safe Place, want to build awareness that consent is a healthy, normal and a necessary part of everyday interactions. Consent is clear and never assumed. It is a “YES” to the question, “is this OKAY?” and a “YES” that can be withdrawn at any time. Whether it’s holding your hand or intimate relations with your partner, consent should always be asked and received. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and YOUR voice has power! Use YOUR voice to spread awareness with your community, family and friends about the importance of consent! 

Local libraries in Lawrenceburg, Bright, Aurora, Dillsboro, and Rising Sun have partnered with Safe Place by setting up SAAM displays with suggested books surrounding sexual violence awareness, empowering stories and healing techniques. Please show your support to end sexual violence by participating individually or as an organization in Wear Teal Day on April 2 or Denim Day on April 24. WHY DENIM? The campaign was originally triggered by a ruling by the Italian Supreme Court where a rape conviction was overturned because the justices felt that since the victim was wearing tight jeans she must have helped her rapist remove her jeans, thereby implying consent. Believe survivors. Rape is never acceptable, no matter what someone is wearing. We thank you for your participation and don’t forget to tag us on social media with #safeplacedeniumday19 to be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card!

Safe Place will also be hosting a self-care group starting on April 11th and a Candlelight Vigil on April 22nd. We hope you can join us for thess great events. They will be a great opportunity to find hope, healing, and help as providers, survivors, or allies. While at our events don’t forget to tag us on Facebook @safeplaceforhope.

1 out of every 6 women have been the victim of an attempted or completed rape and 1 out 10 men. Any form of sexual violence can have psychological, emotional, and physical effects on a survivor and community. If you or someone you care about has had this experience it is important to listen and be there. It is never your/their fault! Encourage them to get support and be patient because there is no timetable for trauma.

Contact us for more information by visit our website at https://safeplaceforhope.org/ and follow us on Facebook @safeplaceforhope for encouragement and future events.