Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Students take part in Sexual Assault Awareness Month to address and combat campus sexual violence

Catherine Silvey / Feature Editor / The USD Vista

In 2015, over one-fifth of women and one in 20 men reported experiencing rape or sexual assault by means of physical force, violence, or incapacitation throughout their time as an undergraduate student according to the Association of American Universities.

In response to such alarming statistics, the University of San Diego and the Center for Health and Wellness Promotion (CHWP) recognize the importance of intentional dialogue through Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a nationwide campaign rooted not only in informing campuses about the prevalence of the issue but also in promoting methods of prevention. Amanda Luckett, the Prevention and Education Coordinator at the CHWP, reiterated this sentiment, further explaining the importance of SAAM’s presence on campus.

“Sexual Assault Awareness Month is recognized every April across the country,” Luckett said. “It is a time to raise awareness of the issue of sexual violence, being in solidarity with those who have been affected by sexual violence, and educate our community on how we can prevent this from happening.”

Because of the sensitivity of the topic, some people don’t feel comfortable addressing or speaking on the issue of sexual assault on their own. Planned and facilitated by Co-Chairs Lexie Rollings and Lindsay Aiello, SAAM initiates the conversation and encourages everyone to take part in it. While discussing this month’s goals, Rollings explained the importance of encouraging and inviting dialogue.

“Many folks have a difficult time conversing about sexual assault either because they lack proper language and knowledge, or feel uncomfortable with the topic,” Rollings said. “SAAM seeks to break down these barriers that separate people from addressing sexual assault, and bring the community together to confront the issue head on. Through public displays of solidarity, and activism embedded in each event or program, SAAM allows for intimate moments or public advocacy promoting education about the issue, self-care, and awareness.”

The theme of this year’s SAAM, “Are You Listening?,” speaks to the more private and reflective side of the month. Conceived by USD sophomore and SAAM volunteer Lexi Crea, the theme suggests that simply lending an ear and listening to the experiences of others can break down the walls of misunderstanding surrounding this topic.

“The theme of the month is ‘Are You Listening?’ and that applies to everyone,” Crea said. “A lot of people worked really hard on this month in order to share some knowledge and better educate the students and staff here about the issue, so all people have to do is show up and listen. Once people have the knowledge I think they can help change the culture of our campus, college campuses in general, and our country. Listen to your friends. Listen to yourself. Listen to the way people are talking about the issue. Everyone needs to listen more.”

Another way for students to participate in SAAM is to complete the anonymous Campus Climate Survey, which is open until April 12. Luckett highlighted the importance of the survey, and encouraged all students to take part in it.

“This survey is designed to assess perceptions and behaviors related to a wide range of issues regarding sexual harassment and violence that impact USD students,” Luckett said. “With data about our students’ experiences, as well as our community’s perceptions and knowledge around these issues, we can better inform our efforts to end sexual harassment and violence at the University of San Diego.”

Though SAAM only spans a month, its message and intention remain important and vital to campus culture year-round. Crea reasserted this and urged students to stay involved and engaged throughout the entire year.

“Some ways students can be involved year-round is to start small,” Crea said. “Attend any of the events we are putting on that you feel called to. Again you just have to listen to others. Be an ally. Listen to your friends and learn how to support them. Be an active bystander and learn what to do if you happen to see something. Support survivors. Work on changing the culture by not letting you or your friends take part in any type of assault. By educating yourself on the issue, you are better prepared to show support and help others. Pay attention and listen to it all year round, not just this month.”

Resources and support are available at the CHWP the entire year for students to access as needed and desired.