Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is this April. SAAM is about spreading awareness on the prevalence of sexual assault and how it effects many individuals and plagues many communities. Sexual violence effects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. With these alarming statistics in mind, we all know someone who is a survivor, or we are a survivor ourselves. However, we should and can be a part of preventing this type of violence from occurring in the first place. As survivors, advocates, and community members we can change the world and our local communities through prevention.
Why is Sexual Assault Awareness Month important?
This awareness campaign brings attention to the fact that sexual violence is widespread and impacts communities. SAAM also highlights that we can prevent violence before it happens to create a safer community.
Why participate? Because everyone has the right to feel safe, included, and thrive in their communities.
Denim Day a recognized campaign that takes place on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025. Denim Day began as a protest after the Italian Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction because a victim wore tight jeans at the time of the assault. Individuals came together to take a stand against victim blaming, and thus denim day was born and is now celebrated internationally.
The Takeaway: We are stronger united than divided. There is power in community and if we come together to decrease violence, we can make meaningful change to create a safer community.
Prevention is an important part of decreasing violence. Some examples of protective/prevention measures are:
- Proper community lighting
- community support
- equitable access to services
- community safe spaces
- crisis response teams
- informed community members
- active bystander intervention
- and, neighborhood watch programs
Sexual violence is widespread and affects many communities. Community members and bystanders have the responsibility to create change through prevention strategies. Both Denim Day and SAAM bring attention to survivor's inspiring stories and how if we work together, we can make a bigger impact. We have the opportunity to change the world for the better through prevention strategies here in Tulare County.
Are you looking to get involved locally and make a difference in your community?
Family Services invites you to participate in our upcoming Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) activities:
• Now through May 5th: SAAM digital match campaign! All donations are being matched up to $5,000 at https://bit.ly/SAAM-25
We are encouraging individuals and groups to get involved. Sticker packs are available while supplies lasts (1 per location/group) for a minimum $20 donation.
• April 23rd, 11 am- 2pm: Rape Crisis & Freedom House Open House
• April 30th, all day: Denim Day - Wear your jeans with purpose! Share your photos with to CE@fstc.net or tag us on social media to be reshared!
• April 30th, 11 am-10 pm: Support Family Services of Tulare County with Red Robin
For more information, please contact info@fstc.net or call 559-732-1970.
