April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time to acknowledge the prevalence of sexual violence, honor survivors, and work towards creating safer communities.How prevalent is Sexual Violence?
- More than 1 in 2 (53%) of women and nearly 1 in 3 (29%) of men experience sexual violence involving physical contact in their lifetime.
- Every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted.
- It's estimated that 433,648 Americans ages 12 and older were sexually assaulted or raped each year.
- 8 out of 10 rapes are committed by someone known to the victim.
What services and resources does Safe Alliance offer to survivors of sexual assault?
At Safe Alliance's Sexual Trauma Resource Center, our staff work every day to honor survivors, giving them a voice in navigating their own healing journies. We provide advocacy, counseling, support groups, hospital accompaniment, and connections to additional community resources. Safe Alliance has offices in Uptown Charlotte and in Lake Norman, and we serve both primary and secondary survivors. It doesn't matter if your trauma occurred recently or many years ago, we are here to help.
How can I connect with the Sexual Trauma Resource Center if I need support?
Call the 24/7 Greater Charlotte Hope Line at 980.771.4673. They'll be able to give you more information, talk through next steps, or schedule an initial meeting.
How do I support a survivor of sexual assault?
- Believe And Validate: Sexual assault is often shrouded in shame and self-blame, so simply acknowledging someone's experience can be a huge relief. Use phrases like "I believe you" and "This is not your fault."
- Listen Without Judgement: Let them share their own story on their own terms. Focus on active listening, showing empathy, and offering comfort. Don't push them for details or to share more than they feel comfortable.
- Empower With Resources: This is their experience and healing journey so don't tell someone what to do. Share resources like Safe Alliance, but respect their boundaries and pace. Offer support and be there for them in whatever way they need.
