This April, LACASA is inviting the community to stand with victims and survivors of sexual violence by participating in a series of awareness events and initiatives in recognition of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Every 68 seconds, someone in the United States is sexually assaulted, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, and every nine minutes, that victim is a child. Meanwhile, only 25 out of every 1,000 perpetrators will end up in prison, making sexual assault one of the most under-reported crimes in the country.
Sherry Boroto, LACASA’s sexual assault response team manger, said April is a time to amplify survivors’ voices and strengthen community support.
“Sexual Assault Awareness Month shines a light on the devastating impact of sexual violence, but it also honors the strength and resilience of survivors,” Boroto said. “At LACASA, we stand with survivors when we start by believing their story and offering hope, healing, and a path forward while working toward a future free from violence.”
Journey to Healing
One of the highlights of the month is Journey to Healing, a free afternoon of self-care taking place noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 18. The event aims to raise awareness for survivors and those who care for them by exploring different paths of restorative wellness activities, including chair massages, yoga, journaling, and poetry. The event is open to all community members and will include activities for children.
Clothesline Project kits
This year, LACASA is expanding the reach of the Clothesline Project, a powerful awareness display featuring T-shirts created by survivors and supporters. LACASA will provide free Clothesline Project kits to interested organizations across Livingston County so they can host their own displays throughout April.
Each kit includes:
- Five T-shirts created by survivors
- A clothesline and clothespins for display
- A card explaining the meaning of the Clothesline Project
Community members can see Clothesline Project displays at several locations throughout the county as local organizations join the effort to raise awareness and show support for survivors.
Denim Day
Toward the end of the month, advocating for survivors can be as simple as putting on a pair of jeans. LACASA encourages residents, businesses, and organizations across Livingston County to participate in Denim Day on April 29. Denim Day began in 1999 following an Italian Supreme Court ruling that overturned a rape conviction, with the justices implying the victim’s tight jeans suggested consent. The global movement now serves as a powerful reminder that there is never an excuse for sexual violence.
Start by Believing
Throughout April, community members are also encouraged to learn more about Start by Believing, the global initiative recently launched in Livingston County that encourages people to respond to survivors with support and compassion.
More info
To host the Clothesline Project or learn more about LACASA’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month events, email SBoroto@lacasacenter.org or visit https://lacasacenter.org/saam/.
