April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence and to educate communities and individuals on how to prevent sexual violence.

Click here to read President Obama's 2011 Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month Proclamation.

60% of sexual assaults are not reported to police. This is a very serious issue that has dangerous effects on our community, and there are ways that you can be part of the solution. The WCA's Sexual Violence Prevention & Education Campaign includes the following programs and events:

Denim Day at Work

In 1999, Italy’s highest court overturned a man’s rape conviction on the grounds that the 18-yr-old victim was wearing jeans. According to defense lawyers, the victim “consented,” otherwise her tight jeans could not have been removed. In protest, women in the Italian Parliament wore jeans to show solidarity. Since, the protest to end victim blaming has spread across the globe, and the movement continues.

The company or organization where you work can get join the movement by participating in Denim Day at Work during the month of April. In addition to staff wearing denim, one of our counselors would lead a 15-20 minute presentation and discussion about the dangerous effects sexual assault has on our community, and how individuals can get involved in putting an end to victim blaming, which results in victims being too afraid to report their assault and perpetrators going free without justice. If you place of work is interested in participating in this program, call Katherine at (208) 343.3688 x11 in 2012.

The WCA and other agencies host a Denim Day Rally every April.  Local law enforcement officials and survivors stand at the podium and rally participants to get involved in the movement to end sexual violence and victim blaming.  Stay tuned for 2012 details!

If you or someone you know needs help now, call our Rape Crisis Hotline at (208) 345.7273.