Awareness can battle sexual assault

We must examine the ways such violence affects not just victims but communities

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year’s campaign, led by activists, advocates and survivors across the country, focuses on ways that individuals and communities can help prevent sexual violence.

In New Mexico one in four women and one in 20 men are reported to experience sexual assault, but all of us are affected by its consequences.

Everyone understands that sexual violence impacts victims and their families, but the effects of this violent crime on communities and society at large are less obvious. Sexual violence creates a climate of fear, anger and disbelief in the workplaces, campuses and communities that it occurs in.

Additionally, sexual violence generates criminal justice, medical and mental health service expenses. Perhaps most damaging is the legacy of these ramifications, which will be left for our children and youths.

Preventing sexual violence may seem overwhelming or even impossible. Complacency, however, implies that there isn’t a solution — or if there is, we can’t achieve it. But we can and we are. There are many practical steps that are currently being taken in our homes, neighborhoods, schools, faith communities and workplaces; however, there are many more things we can do.

Prevention starts with challenging victim-blaming and believing survivors when they disclose.

Adults can model healthy relationships and supportive behaviors to young people. Individuals and leaders within our community can call out harmful attitudes, and businesses and other organizations can take action to implement policies that promote safety, respect, equality and consent.

This year we declare that prevention is possible!

Join us in helping everyone see their role in preventing sexual violence. You can learn more at www.nsvrc.org or at www.rapecrisiscnm.org.