Since the 1970s, the
discussion of sexual assault and preventing it from occurring to women opened
the pathway for women to speak up about this important topic. As more events
were held, more women were informed about sexual assault, rape, domestic
violence, and other occurrences of sexual violence. Laws were made to protect
women from domestic violence and abuse. But it was not until 2001 that April
was declared Sexual Assault Awareness Month through a campaign. Events and
resources were provided for preventing sexual assault.
This campaign began
with the Sexual Violence Resource Center which was the first national campaign
for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. In 2009, President Obama recognized Sexual
Assault Awareness Month in April. However, sexual assault occurs more in women,
it can happen in men. Being sexually assaulted causes symptoms of anxiety,
depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet, some are not
aware of the warning signs of sexual assault until it occurs to them.
One of the warning
signs that someone wants to do sexual assault is groping and unwanted sexual
contact. Unwanted sexual touching, unwanted kissing, and forcing someone to
have sexual contact. A person becomes violent and causes bruises and
unexplainable bleeding through an attempted rape or during the rape. Also,
spending too much time with their partner who is doing sexual assault,
rape, or sexual violence. Other warning signs are withdrawing from
socializing and from doing social activities with their friends and family.
Additionally, being
defensive and defending their partner. As well as having excuses for explaining
their bruises, and black eyes, and covering their bruises with their clothes or
band-aids. This causes them to have anguish, anger, and negative emotions about
themselves. Furthermore, a person who has been sexually assaulted has a more active
nervous system and is afraid of having the doctor examine them. When men are
assaulted, they begin abusing drugs and alcohol.
Sexual assault leaves
anyone with emotional, physical, and mental issues if it is not treated. If a sexual
assault happens, seek medical treatment, and report it to the authorities. Do
not take a shower because your medical team will need evidence of bodily fluid,
hair, and torn clothing items. Also, if a therapist or a counselor is suggested
for your mental health, do not delay in seeing one. Sexual Assault Awareness
Month is essential for educating and preventing sexual violence from occurring to
anyone.
The color teal is used
for promoting sexual assault awareness. Take self-defense classes if they are
offered in your community college, university, and local events in your area.
Participate in Denim Day which is on the last Wednesday of April. Hang free posters
in your school, college, and university. But ask permission first before hanging
them.
Use your social media
to bring an understanding of Sexual Assault Awareness Month with social
media resources. Your voice can be effective to stop sexual assault. Do not
discuss your sexual assault on social media because of legality if you must go
to court for your sexual assault case. But do speak to authorities with every
detail about the sexual assault and the person that did the rape, sexual
violence, or unwanted groping. Do not be afraid to tell authorities all the
details about your sexual assault and details of the person that did rape,
sexual violence, or unwanted groping.
Print out Sexual Assault
Month coloring pages for your class with your teacher’s permission to give to
your classmates. This is a serious matter, and it can happen to anyone even if
you do not believe it can occur to you. Be alert of your surroundings no matter
where you are and do not get distracted by your cellular. Keep your house keys,
cellular, and identification in a safe place and defend yourself without
being afraid. Below are resources for sexual assault awareness month.
10 Ways to Prevent Sexual Violence-Women & Families Center (WFC) in Connecticut:
Sexual Assault Safety & Prevention-National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC):
Sexual Assault Safety & Prevention | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
National Sexual Violence Resource Center: Printable Posters, Coloring Pages, etc.
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