What is Sexual Assault Violence

Sexual assault is a form of sexual violence in which a person is forced to engage in sexual activity against their will. This can include rape, sexual battery, and other forms of unwanted sexual contact. Sexual assault can have a devastating impact on victims, both physically and emotionally.

Here are some safety guidelines to keep in mind when responding to sexual assault:

• Do not blame the victim. It is never the victim’s fault that they were assaulted.
• Do not make jokes or light of the situation. Sexual assault is a serious crime and should be treated with respect.
• Do not pressure the victim to talk about what happened. The victim may not be ready to talk about their experience, and that is okay.
• Offer support to the victim. Let them know that you are there for them and that you believe them.
• Encourage the victim to seek help. There are many resources available to help victims of sexual assault, such as the National Sexual Assault Hotline.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please reach out for help. There is hope.