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TCNJ | Life > Academics

WILL Weekly 16: Sexual Assault Awareness Month

WILL E-Board Student Contributor, The College of New Jersey
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at TCNJ chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This week, one of our Vice Executives, Esme Regalado, has researched Sexual Assault Awareness Month!

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) Day of Action 2026
April 1, 2026, marks the SAAM Day of Action (traditionally observed on the first Tuesday of April). This day serves as the official kickoff for a month of visibility, education, and solidarity. The year, 2026, marks the 25th anniversary of the first officially coordinated National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) has designated the 2026 theme “25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward” to celebrate a quarter-century of organized advocacy while addressing the evolving challenges of the digital age and systemic inequality.

Historical Context 
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How to Get Involved:
TCNJ Event: “Day to End Rape Culture” 
When: Tuesday, April 7th from 10 AM-2 PM
Where: BSC 100 
Description: Every year, the Anti-Violence Initiatives office hosts an expo-style event focused on the prevention of power-based personal violence in our community. Each table focuses on a specific way our society/culture subtly supports or encourages violence, how we can learn to recognize this, and how we can intervene or act to stop the violence within our spheres of influence. Each table seeks to build a tangible skill and empower attendees. They will have prizes at each table and larger prizes for those who attend a few more, so mark your calendars!
Wear Teal (April 1): Teal is the official color of sexual violence prevention. On the Day of Action, supporters are encouraged to wear teal clothing or ribbons and share photos on social media using #SAAM2026 or #SAAMDayOfAction. This serves as a visible signal to survivors that they are supported.
Start by Believing Day (April 1): This campaign focuses on the initial response to someone sharing their experience. Research shows that a supportive reaction is the single most important factor in a survivor’s healing process.
PCAR Advocacy Day: Meet with legislators to discuss funding for rape crisis centers and policies that protect survivors’ rights in the justice system.
Where to Donate RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): Operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline and is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. Donate here.
NSVRC (National Sexual Violence Resource Center): The lead organization for SAAM campaign materials and prevention research. Donate here.
End Violence Against Women International (EVAWI): Focuses on improving the criminal justice response to sexual assault. Donate here.

Important Note
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, help is available. You can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE or visit online.rainn.org for free, confidential support 24/7.
WILL E-Board

TCNJ '40

Current WILL E-Board:
Executive Chair: Maria Hourihan
Vice Executive Chairs: Esme Regalado & Bayane Chahine
Social Media Chair: Lyna Chahine
Programming Chair: Amanda Ercolino
Community Service Chair: Campbell Maenner
Finance Chair: Teresa Loh
Membership Co-Chairs: Caroline Pollinger and Shayna Jaroslaw

The WILL Program strives to foster a deeper understanding of gender and its intersections with race, culture, class, sexuality and other aspects of social identity. By connecting students with each other, and to a strong supportive network of faculty, staff, alumnae and community mentors, WILL students develop critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, problem-solving and leadership skills.