April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

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Sexual Assault Awareness Month calls attention to the fact that sexual violence is widespread and its impact is far-reaching. We sponsor and participate in a variety of activities throughout the month designed to bring the community and survivors together to increase awareness and share resources about sexual violence.

What is Consent?

Consent is defined as permission for something to happen or agreement to do something. Consent is a sign of communication and respect. This means consent is:

  • Clear.
  • Concise.
  • Coercion free. It cannot be gained by force or threat.
  • Revocable at any time. Just because something may have been a ‘yes’ previously does not guarantee a future ‘yes’.

If you are ever unsure if consent has been given: ASK. Remember, no means no. And no response does not equal consent.

For additional reading on consent, visit Michigan Tech.

Here is a helpful video that puts consent into simple, PG terms:

How to Help

Do you know or suspect a friend or loved one is being sexually assaulted? Or someone who may be causing the harm? Sexual violence can be difficult to recognize as it can take many forms, and different people will react in various ways to such assault and violence. Do not blame yourself if it is not always obvious. There is often a level of shame, embarrassment, and even guilt that victims/survivors may feel, so do not be upset or react strongly whether someone chooses to stay quiet or reveal the truth to you. Remember, sexual assault is never a victim’s fault, and the best thing you can do is support them.

Here are a few tips:

  • Be a good listener.
  • Start by believing.
  • Ask how you can help.

Here is a guide from our friends at The Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault.

Below is another guide from our friends at the Rape Recovery Center.

How Can I Show My Support for Survivors?

Click the image above to save, print, and Start By Believing today!

Find out more about the pledge here.

Find the English pledge card here.

Find the Spanish pledge card here.

Help Survivors Today

Denim Day 2026

Observed on the last Wednesday of April, Denim Day is a global campaign against sexual violence and victim-blaming. It began in response to a 1998 Italian Supreme Court ruling that overturned a rape conviction, with justices arguing the victim’s tight jeans implied consent. In protest, women in the Italian Parliament wore jeans to work in solidarity.

In 1999, Peace Over Violence launched Denim Day in Los Angeles to challenge the myths surrounding sexual assault. Today, it is the world’s longest-running prevention campaign, encouraging people to wear denim as a visible “social statement” against the misconceptions that fuel sexual violence.

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