Staff Editorial: The history and importance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM)
As April rapidly comes to a close, The Lamron staff felt it important to bring attention to Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Unfortunately, sexual assault is a stark reality that pervades our society, both on a global scale and on our own campus. This staff editorial will delve into the history of SAAM and contextualize the importance of recognizing SAAM to support victims of sexual assault and combat against sexual violence.
Though Apr. was only designated as Sexual Assault Awareness month in 2001—and was not recognized by a United States President until former-President Barack Obama in 2009—the history of spreading awareness about the ongoing prevalence of sexual assault began long before the turn of the 21st century. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, movements to bring attention to the issue of sexual assault “gained traction in the 1940s and 50s with the civil rights era.” From that point forward, more and more people, and women in particular, began to rally for awareness and visibility for victims of sexual assault.
The 1970s were a particularly significant time for the movement, especially when “the first rape crisis center was founded in San Francisco in 1971, the same city where the first U.S. Take Back the Night event [a march to protest against sexual violence] was held seven years later.” By the end of the 20th century, many strides were made, both in terms of awareness and legislation that directly combats sexual assault. Of course, this finally led to Apr. being recognized as SAAM in 2001.
In discussing the history of this month, the NSVRC cites that “efforts [to raise awareness] during this time [the civil rights era] were championed by Black women and women of color.” Though they often do not receive the credit they deserve, women of color have proven, both historically and today, to be agents of social change. In turn, as we bring awareness to sexual violence this month, it is imperative to recognize and celebrate the work that women of color continuously put into making society a more equitable place for all people.
There are many events and campaigns that occur throughout the month to honor and support victims of sexual assault. While these events vary from community to community, there are some activities that all people can participate in throughout the country to show their support for survivors of sexual assault. For example, on the last Wednesday of the month, people nationwide dress to celebrate Denim Day, which honors a victim of sexual assault whose abuser was released from prison after he, “appealed that the girl had had ‘consensual’ sex with him because she was wearing tight jeans that could have only been taken off with her help” (National Today). In addition, there are several marches held throughout the country to show widespread solidarity to victims of sexual assault.
As we continue to spread awareness for victims of sexual assault, it is crucial to remember that this issue is one that continues to wreak havoc in individuals’ lives. The statistics are disheartening: according to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), “every 68 seconds another American is sexually assaulted.” Most victims are women or people assigned female at birth, but sexual assault can happen to anyone at any age. This includes college students; in fact, RAINN reports that “13% of all students experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation (among all graduate and undergraduate students).”
If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault and need help, one can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673. The Lamron staff stands with victims of sexual assault and their loved ones, and encourages everyone to remember that you are not alone.
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