April is Sexual Assault awareness month.
Sexual assault is becoming an issue that is starting to get more awareness. Sexual assault is an issue where fear and stereotypes often are paid more attention to than actual facts. In this article, I am going to present the facts and statistics. I want those who read this to be more aware and informed.
Have you ever had that moment where you are walking alone at night, and you begin to jump at every shadow and begin to walk a little faster when you walk past someone? Many people have this idea that most sexual assault incidents occur in a dark alley type of setting and usually by some scary stranger. However, this is not the case. Statistics show that four out of five cases of sexual assault are committed by someone you know. Also, six percent of cases occur indoors and 31 percent of cases of women victims occur inside their own home. This isn't meant to scare you; it is simply a fact.
The prevalence of sexual assault is more common than you think. Statistics show 80 percent of women victims are under the age of 30. That means that four out of five women will experience sexual assault before the age of 30. Look at your friends. Who is it going to be?
Men are also victims of sexual assault and it is more common than you think. 10 percent of all victims are men. The myths and stereotypes about men and sexual assault can lead to devastating effects, making it hard for them to recover mentally from such a tragic event.
Did you know that without consent sexual acts can be deemed as sexual assault? Consent is given through the overt words or actions that clearly show consent of the person. Consent is not the absence of a no.
Another fact you may not know is that in certain conditions, legally, consent cannot be given. This includes being under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Even if they give consent, under these substances, that consent becomes null and void in the eyes of the law. If an individual is asleep or unconscious, consent cannot be given. Therefore, it becomes sexual assault.
Sexual assault is never the victim's fault. Regardless of how much they have been drinking, how they dress, or any other external factors, sexual assault is sexual assault.
It is time to stop overlooking this issue. Sexual assault, unfortunately, is more common than we think. It is not just a women's issue, but an issue for everyone. I hope in reading this, you realize the importance of clear consent and hopefully shed some light on the stereotypes and myths that surround sexual assault.
In writing this, I learned so much. While some of what I have learned was a little depressing, I am glad that I am more of aware on such a sensitive topic for many. I hope for victims of sexual assault, you find healing, comfort and support.
If you are a victim of sexual assault and need support, here are some resources:
RAINN National Sexual Assault Online Hotline
Women's Crisis Center at 859-491-3335
Northern Kentucky University Resources:
Health, Counseling and Prevention Services at 859-572-5650
University Police Dispatcher at 859-572-5500
Dean of Students Office at 859-572-5147
