While April is the time we celebrate spring, prom and gear up for graduation season, it’s also a month of significance for victims of sexual assault.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is observed every April to raise public awareness about sexual assault, support victims, and to educate communities on how to prevent sexual violence. This month is vital in providing statistics regarding sexual violence and dismissing myths. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center:
•One in five women in the United States experienced completed or attempted rape during their lifetime.
•Nearly a quarter (24.8%) of men in the U.S. experienced some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime.
•Less than 25 percent of rapes are reported to law enforcement.
•About one in 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. (Source: Darkness to Light)
•More than 80 percent of sexual violence is committed by someone the victim knows.
Sexual violence happens everywhere, including our city. One local resource to help those impacted and educate the community is Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA). MOCSA exists to improve the lives of those impacted by sexual abuse and assault. They provide counseling, advocacy, and have a 24-hour support line. Listen in as Tyler Lumpkin, MSW, Coordinator of Education and Outreach for MOCSA shares more.