April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month–a month in which efforts to raise awareness of the dangers and signs of sexual assault are heightened to protect the community. This year’s campaign, as announced by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, is dedicated to educating adolescents on safe sex; including the prevention of sexual assault.
According to the NSVRC, one of the most important things you can do in the prevention of sexual assault is practice open dialogue. Talking about healthy sex is especially important between sexual partners. Though these conversations may be awkward–talking about sex is never comfortable–it’s important to know your partner’s comfort level sexually. Though some unwanted sexual advances may be unintentionally so by the offender, they are harmful nonetheless, and are still classified as sexual violence. Talking about safe sex before engaging in sexual activity educates each partner on what the other is comfortable with, resulting in a more enjoyable and safe environment.
Dialogue within our community is also important. Educating adolescents and adults alike about the signs of sexual abuse creates a safer and healthier place for everyone. Being aware of what sexual assault looks like can prevent you from becoming a victim, and spreading this awareness can prevent others as well. Sexual abuse is a heavy subject, which often makes it hard to talk about. However, the more we as a community talk about safe and healthy sex, fewer people will be subjected to sexual assault. This month, the nation challenges you to talk about sex.
Here some ways to talk about sex in your everyday lives:
1.Check out the #nomore campaign
With celebrities like Amy Poehler and Idina Menzel involved in this program, it’s not hard to see how the campaign has managed to become so successful across a variety of social media platforms. Getting involved with the campaign is easy to do.
2. Remove the stigma
By making sex a more acceptable topic of conversation, we are better able to educate the public about safe sex. Sex is a natural part of being human, and of life in general; why can’t we treat it as such? The result is worth breaking these awkward conversational barriers
3. Don’t be afraid to speak up
It’s scary to feel like you’re imposing in others’ personal lives, but it’s even scarier being trapped in an abusive situation. Think what you’d want others to do if they saw you suffering as a victim of sexual assault. If you see something, say something; using approachable language and non-accusatory “I” declarations. If you or anyone you know is a victim of sexual assault, don’t hesitate to speak out. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4357