We would like to bring to your attention the significance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and the importance of recognizing and actively participating in initiatives aimed at addressing this critical issue.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month, observed annually in April, is a dedicated period to raise public awareness about sexual violence and its profound impact on individuals, families, and communities. It serves as a platform to educate, engage, and mobilize individuals and organizations to take proactive steps toward prevention, support survivors, and advocate for policies that promote justice and healing.
This year SHARE has worked to create a variety of programs designed to reach different groups within our community. You are always encouraged to participate, but please know that some programs may be more comfortable than others, we encourage you to reflect on what you need or want to participate in.
If this month or programming brings up concerns, please see our resources below, and/or seek out help on campus. Reports may be made to the Director of Equity and Title IX Coordinator Sara Holtzman online, in person at Memorial Hall, room 100, via email (holtzmas@lawrence.edu) or by phone (920-832-7496). Additional resources are found on the Equity and Title IX page, as well as a non-confidential online reporting tool.
Confidential Sources (not mandatory reporters)
- Campus Advocate | Rachel Parbs | rachel@reachcounseling.com
- Counselors, Physicians, Nurses | Wellness Services | wellnessservices@lawrence.edu
- Dean of Spiritual and Religious Life | Terra Winston Sage | terra.r.winston@lawrence.edu
SAAM Events
On Campus
- April 11 | Career Chat | 4:30-5:30 p.m. | D&IC
- A conversation on careers in sexual violence advocacy, compliance, and more
- April 17 | STI Testing | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Wellness Services
- April 19 | Everyday Consent is Kindness | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Warch Info Desk Tabling
- April 23 | Healthy Relationship Bingo | 8 p.m. | Warch 325 – Pusey Room
- April 24 | Denim Day
- Wear denim in solidarity.
- April 24 | Community Art Project | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Warch Mead Witter
- Decorate a piece of denim to contribute to the community art project or to take home as a token of the week.
Off Campus
- All April | SAAM Coffee of the Month at Lawlss Coffee
- All proceeds (minus supplies) go to REACH Advocacy and Counseling Services
- April 13 | Trauma-Informed Yoga | 10 a.m. | Grace Under Fire Yoga
- April 28 | Mark the Change – Get a Tat, Give Back | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Easy Street Tattoo
- Easy Street Tattoo is partnering with Reach and Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services to provide a flash tattoo event involving 5 tattoo artists. Prices will range from $80-200 (cash only). All proceeds will go to Reach and Christine Ann.
Virtual
- Instagram Education| Follow and share content generated by @SHARE_Lawrence
The primary objectives of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) include:
- Raising Awareness: SAAM endeavors to increase awareness about the prevalence and devastating consequences of sexual assault. By fostering open discussions and providing accurate information, we aim to challenge misconceptions, dispel myths, and create a culture of understanding and empathy.
- Empowering Survivors: It is imperative to create a supportive environment where survivors feel safe and empowered to speak out about their experiences. SAAM provides an opportunity to amplify the voices of survivors, validate their experiences, and connect them with resources and support services.
- Prevention and Education: Prevention lies at the heart of addressing sexual violence. SAAM campaigns focus on educating individuals about consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention. By promoting positive behaviors and attitudes, we strive to prevent instances of sexual assault and foster a culture of respect and accountability.
- Advocacy and Policy Reform: SAAM serves as a catalyst for advocacy efforts aimed at driving policy reforms and institutional changes. By advocating for survivor-centered policies, improved support services, and comprehensive legal frameworks, we work towards ensuring justice and accountability for survivors while holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month is not merely about acknowledging the existence of sexual violence but also about taking concrete actions to effect positive change. By engaging in awareness-raising activities, supporting survivors, and advocating for systemic reforms, we contribute to creating safer, more inclusive communities where everyone can live free from the threat of sexual violence.
I encourage you to join us in observing Sexual Assault Awareness Month by participating in events, initiating discussions, and supporting organizations dedicated to ending sexual violence. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of survivors and work towards building a society where consent, respect, and dignity are upheld for all.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Should you have any questions or need more information, please reach out. If you would like to request accommodation, different formatting, or to help as a volunteer in the month please email SHARE@lawrence.edu.
