Sexual assault is something we don’t like to talk about, but we need to. Every 107 seconds in America, someone is sexually assaulted, and that’s terrifying. You might think that there aren’t ways you personally can prevent sexual assault, but there are many things that every one of us can do to help the cause.
1. Educate yourself.
Don’t assume you know everything you need to know about sexual assault, including how it happens and who it happens to. For example, one statistic many people are unaware of is that nearly 90 percent of sexual assaults are actually not perpetrated by a stranger, but a friend, family member, significant other, or acquaintance of the survivor.
2. Educate other people.
Once you’ve educated yourself, you can educate others. Share with your friends and your family what you’ve learned.
3. Stop blaming victims.
Don’t justify sexual assault by blaming it on their outfit or whereabouts. Stop telling people to learn self-defense. Stop saying that the victim shouldn’t have been drinking. Don’t try to justify sexual assault at all.
4. Always ask for consent.
Silence does not mean yes. Only yes means yes. Even if you’re worried you’ll make things awkward or uncomfortable, always ask.
5. Don't pressure.
Don’t use alcohol, drugs, peer pressure, mind games, guilt, or anything else to make someone have sex with you. If you think you have to persuade someone to have sex with you because you think they don't want to, don't do it.
6. Be aware of gender roles.
Studies have shown that most perpetrators have a very rigid sense of gender roles, masculinity, femininity, and homophobia. Be aware that telling people that “pink is meant for girls” and “blue is meant for boys” remember that it’s these type of messages that have the potential to lead to sexual violence.
7. Don’t make rape jokes.
Don’t laugh at rape jokes. Call out people who make rape jokes. Let people know that rape isn’t a laughing matter. This is so important.
8. Be the change you wish to see in society.
Be a model when it comes to healthy relationships. Always treat people who respect. Don't sexually assault. Don't pretend it's not a problem.
