Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Unfortunately, sexual assault is far too common with research showing that Over 53% of women and over 29% of men reported experiencing contact sexual violence with most reporting that they were harmed by someone they know. While many may think of sexual assault prevention as a series of actions that an individual can do to keep themselves safe or minimize risky behavior, there is much more that can contribute to preventing sexual assault. Here are a few things that you can do in order to prevent sexual assault:- Encourage children to express and respect boundaries. Encouraging children to ask others before giving hugs, encouraging and protecting a child’s right to say no to touch or affection from others, and teaching children how to treat others with respect can support them growing into adults that have respect for the autonomy of others as well as feeling empowered to set their own boundaries.
- Advocate for workplace policies and government legislation. Unfortunately, many workplaces may not have strong policies to protect employees and current laws and legislation can make it more challenging for survivors to come forward and for offenders to be punished. Advocating for better protections can improve safety for everyone.
- Challenge negative stereotypes and harmful behaviors in your friends, family, and coworkers. When you encounter potential harmful, demeaning, or derogatory jokes or comments from others, address the individual and encourage respectful treatment of others.
The theme for this year’s awareness month is “building connected communities”. In addition to the steps above, take time this month to participate in raising awareness by sharing your support for victims, wearing teal, taking part in online or local events, or donate time or money to local or national organizations that support survivors of sexual assault. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you are not alone. There are many resources available to support you. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (https://www.nsvrc.org/find-help) has many resources available. There is also the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE) operated by The Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network that can connect you with support and resources. Additionally, mental health professionals are available to provide support to survivors of sexual assault. Day of (No) Silence
(4/4/2025) In 1996, two students came together to draw attention to the problem of bullying and harassment of LGBTQ+ students by devoting a day to silence as part of a project on nonviolent protest. Since then, the Day of Silence has become a widespread student-led initiative to bring attention to these issues with many organizations ending the day with rallies devoted to breaking the silence. This year, following increases in laws that have negative ramifications for members of the LGBTQ+ community, we recognize The Day of (No) Silence on April 12th. Whether you are a student or educator or not, this is a great opportunity to speak up for and support the voices of LGBTQ+ students who may be experiencing bullying, harassment, or discrimination. If you are a student, consider registering to participate in the day of silence. Over 8,000 schools in the US host events recognizing this day and it can be a great opportunity to speak up and connect with others. If you are an educator, consider creating an inclusive library to highlight LGBTQ+ voices. Here are a few other ways to offer support:- Share stories, videos, and resources on your social media. Be intentional about not remaining silent on April 12th. Use whatever platform you may have to express support or share resources for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Contact your representatives or elected officials. Send a message about the need for protections for LGBTQ+ youth or current issues facing members of the LGBTQ+ community.
- Volunteer or donate. Dedicate time or money to organizations supporting LGBTQ+ youth in your community or national organizations that advocate for the rights and protections of members of the LGBTQ+ community.
For more information or to register to participate, check out GLSEN at https://www.glsen.org/dayofnosilence. If you or someone you know is struggling with bullying, discrimination, or mistreatment related to their gender or sexual identity, mental health professionals can provide support and resources. | 
