Day of Action

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and I thought today would be a good day to post about it, because April 7th has been designated as Day of Action, a nationally recognized day to spread awareness and for advocates to engage their community.  SAAM has only been in place since 2009 and shares the month with causes such as child abuse and autism.  Both are also important causes, but sexual assault is definitely a less comfortable and popular topic to discuss and something we still need to make great strides in preventing and changing attitudes.

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I think this infographic does a great job at showing how many people are affected by sexual assault and how few really see any kind of justice or action taken.  Chances are you know someone who has been a victim of sexual assault or perhaps you have yourself are a survivor.  Whatever the case, please consider helping to make this month a success by starting a conversation online, educating yourself and others, or offering support to your local crisis center.  Remember to tag photos and posts online with #SAAM  For more information or to seek help, please visit the links below.

National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)- You can find all the information you need on SAAM at the NSVRC's website, including ways to take action and a calendar of events for the month.

Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN)- RAINN operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline and its online version which can be accessed on their site.  You can also find local resources, tons of information on sexual assault, and ways to get more involved in the cause.

#survivorloveletter- This tumblr is full of beautiful powerful letters to survivors.  It's such an amazing site!  NSVRC is actually working with the site and is promoting April 22nd as a day to flood the internet with love for survivors.  Get more info on the day here.