Sexual harm is an issue that’s both widespread and widely misunderstood, but you can boost your awareness, better engage with your community, and take action. This Sexual Assault Awareness Month is the perfect time to learn more about the topic. Need a place to start? Check out these five pieces from the CAASE blog that offer the nuanced info and ideas you need to become an aware, active ally. 

How Do We Prevent Sexual Assault?

It’s a daunting question, but even the smallest actions can help prevent sexual harm. We can and should all take part! With help from our Prevention Education team, you can build the skills to call-in your friends and identify dangerous ideas in everyday situations. 

Speaking Up When You See Harassment

When it comes to preventing sexual violence, we know that small actions can make a difference. Even though sexual harassment is often written off as joking or flirting and may feel normalized in your environment, it is a type of sexualized violence. The good news is that short moments of bystander intervention can stop it from taking place — Here’s how!

How to Support Someone Who’s Been Sexually Assaulted

Do you know what you would do if someone told you they had been sexually assaulted? You don’t have to be an expert to help someone through the aftermath. Keeping a few simple principles in mind will help them feel supported and can have a positive impact on their healing. Take a few minutes to read this piece. It will help you feel prepared when a survivor trusts you with such an important conversation.  

Telling Someone You’ve Been Sexually Assaulted 

Coming forward and sharing the story of your sexual assault can be a gut-wrenching experience, but it can also be part of the healing process. Even if the person you tell doesn’t know how to receive the information, you can take steps to have the healthiest experience possible. Read on to learn how to prepare yourself and initiate a conversation.

Reclaiming Sex and Romance After Assault

Everyone deserves a healthy and authentic relationship with sexuality, but we know that survivors can have a harder time returning to sex and romance after an assault. In turn, their partners need to be flexible, patient, and receptive. Here’s an intro to the best practices for either party. 

The Link Between Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault 

The path from domestic violence to sexual assault is well-worn and common. In fact, the majority of women who were sexually assaulted within abusive relationships report it happened more than once. Understanding this dynamic can enable you to better recognize the warning signs in your world and take action.  

BONUS! Ways to Get Involved During SAAM 2022 

Want to join the SAAM community? From the #30DaysOfSAAM Social Media Challenge to bystander intervention training, there are plenty of virtual and in-person events this April. You can also make a commitment to the fight against sexual harm by registering for the Race for CAASE team! Why not use Sexual Assault Awareness Month to kickstart your fundraising and training?

This piece was published on April 1, 2022. It was authored by KT Hawbaker and edited by Hayley Forrestal. Learn more about our staff here.