Awareness of sexual violence and the value of the programs and services available to the female, male and child survivors, are the main focus during Sexual Assault Awareness Week.
The provincial government has proclaimed Sexual Assault Awareness Week as May 15 to 19. The theme this year is “Don’t stand by, speak up against sexual assault.” Through awareness, education, and support, we are uniting to break the silence of assault and shift attitudes that will change behaviours and reduce sexual violence. Sexual violence crosses all ages, genders, races, ethnicities, and economic backgrounds.
“Sexual assault is a topic that we, as a community, often want to avoid, but we must break the silence and speak of it loud and clear in order to end it,” said Christa Daku, executive drector of Envision.
According to “Did You Know” statistics from Envision, one in three women and one in six men will be affected by sexual assault in their lifetime. There are also 91 per cent of sexual assaults that are not reported to the police. Although the amount of sexual violence is alarming, there is hope for survivors and means to prevent it. Envision Counselling and Support Centre offers a safe space and help for sexual assault survivors.
“We are seeing more and more people who are coming to our offices and seeking support, or seeking after-care,” noted Daku.
The organization offers counselling and support throughout the southeast with offices in Estevan, Weyburn, Carlyle and Oxbow. Envision also offers education surrounding sexual assault through presentations and their resource based website. Envision believes that education and awareness are key factors in preventing violence in communities.
This year, to promote awareness regarding sexual assault, Envision will be engaging youth in local high schools with sexual assault presentations and information booths. Students will also have the opportunity to send positive messages to survivors of sexual assault as well as learn ways they can be supportive.
“I wasn’t aware of how much rape and sexual assault is going on in our world,” said a student of a previous sexual assault presentation done by Envision. With each presentation, students have the chance to understand the social and legal pieces surrounding sexual assault.
To follow what Envision is doing for Sexual Assault Awareness Week find them on Facebook or visit www.envisioncounsellingcentre.com.
