Stepping Stones urges support for Sexual Assault Awareness Month

COURTNEY SCHOLL

CO-DIRECTOR, STEPPING STONES, INC.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). SAAM is about more than awareness – the ultimate goal is prevention. Sexual violence is a prevalent issue in society, and our community has the power to create change.

Sexual violence statistics in our country – including Taylor County – are alarming. Over the last four years, Stepping Stones has provided support to 95 survivors of sexual violence. In the United States:

• Over half of women and almost 1 in 3 men have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes.

• 1 in 4 women and about 1 in 26 men have experienced completed or attempted rape.

• About 1 in 9 men were made to penetrate someone during his lifetime.

• According to the Centers for Disease Control, “Recent estimates put the lifetime cost of rape at $122,461 per survivor, including medical costs, lost productivity, criminal justice activities, and other costs.”

What can we do? We can create a healthier, safer community.

• Intervene when you see concerning behavior

• Believe and support survivors

• Model healthy behaviors and relationships Stepping Stones encourages you to promote our SAAM campaign, I ASK for Consent. Businesses/organizations can display I ASK posters and handouts. By doing so, our community takes an active part in prevention efforts. Consent is a normal, healthy, and necessary part of everyday interactions. When we check in with people and honor their emotional and physical boundaries, we’re promoting behavior that leads to a healthier, safer environment for everyone. Last year, 150+ Taylor County community organizations and businesses took part!

Stop by Medford County Market from 8 am – 3:30 pm on April 24th to chat with our advocates about the importance of believing survivors. We’ll be promoting Denim Day, which sends the message that abuse is never the victim’s fault.

Cups at Uncommon Ground and Taylored Nutrition will be sporting a special I ASK coffee sleeve during the month. We encourage you to stop by and help spread the message!

Check Stepping Stones Facebook page throughout the month to learn more. We’ll also be highlighting subjects like sexual coercion, sexual violence and substance use, military sexual assault, and more information about consent.

*Statistics from CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)