Breaking the Silence: Empowering Survivors During Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for a future free from sexual violence. At V.O.I.C.E.S. Against Sexual Assault, we believe that breaking the silence surrounding sexual violence is a crucial step toward healing and change. This month, we invite you to join us in standing with survivors, educating our communities, and fostering a culture of empowerment, prevention, and support.

Understanding the Impact of Sexual Violence

Sexual assault is more common than many realize, affecting individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and identities. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC):

• 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime.

• Every 68 seconds, someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted.

• More than 60% of assaults are never reported due to fear, stigma, or lack of support.

These numbers are staggering, but behind every statistic is a person—a survivor who deserves compassion, justice, and healing.

Breaking the Silence: Why Awareness Matters

Sexual violence thrives in silence. Many survivors hesitate to speak out due to fear of not being believed, shame, or the pressure to move on. However, awareness brings change. When we openly discuss sexual violence, we:

-Empower survivors to share their stories without fear of judgment.

-Educate communities on the prevalence and impact of sexual violence.

-Challenge victim-blaming and shift the responsibility to perpetrators.

-Advocate for resources and policy changes that support survivors.

By standing together, we create a culture where survivors feel safe to speak up and receive the support they need.

How You Can Support Survivors During SAAM

1. Believe and Support Survivors

One of the most powerful things you can do is believe survivors when they share their stories. Offer them a safe space, listen without judgment, and let them know they are not alone.

-Say: “I believe you. You are not alone. I am here to support you.”

-Avoid: “Are you sure? That doesn’t sound like them.” (This can be invalidating and harmful.)

2. Educate Yourself and Others

Understanding the realities of sexual violence helps dismantle myths and misinformation. Take time to learn about:

• Consent – Clear, enthusiastic, and ongoing agreement between all parties.

• Trauma Responses – Fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses are normal survival mechanisms.

• Prevention Strategies – Educate young people about respect, boundaries, and healthy relationships.

3. Wear Teal and Participate in SAAM Events

Teal is the color of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Wearing teal shows solidarity with survivors and raises awareness in your community. You can also:

-Share resources and survivor stories on social media.

-Attend or organize a local SAAM event.

-Participate in Denim Day (the last Wednesday of April, April 30th), a movement that challenges victim-blaming.

4. Advocate for Change

Sexual violence is a systemic issue that requires policy and cultural shifts. You can help by:

-Supporting laws that protect survivors and fund crisis services.

-Encouraging workplaces and schools to implement trauma-informed policies.

-Volunteering or donating to organizations like V.O.I.C.E.S. Against Sexual Assault, which provide free therapy, coaching, and retreats for survivors.

5. Encourage Healing and Professional Support

Healing after sexual trauma is a deeply personal journey. Survivors may benefit from professional support, including trauma-informed therapy, support groups, and holistic wellness programs.

At V.O.I.C.E.S., we offer:

✔️ A 10-week Healing Voices program, which includes virtual therapy and life coaching.

✔️ Individual therapy and support groups tailored for survivors.

✔️ A 4-day Healing Voices Retreat, where survivors can engage in trauma-informed healing practices such as yoga, meditation, and expressive arts.

If you or someone you love needs support, we are here to help. No survivor should have to heal alone.

Final Thoughts: Every Voice Matters

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is more than just a campaign—it is a movement toward change, healing, and justice. Survivors deserve to be heard, believed, and supported not just in April, but every day of the year.

This month, we encourage you to take action:

-Listen and believe survivors.

-Use your voice to spread awareness.

-Support organizations that provide healing resources.

-Educate yourself and others on the realities of sexual violence.

At V.O.I.C.E.S. Against Sexual Assault, we are committed to empowering survivors and building a future free from sexual violence. We invite you to stand with us and be part of the change.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to us. You are not alone. Your healing matters. Your voice matters.

Join the conversation. Share your support. Together, we can break the silence.