April of this year marks the 20th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM).

Since 2001, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center coordinates campaigns to educate and engage communities on sexual assault prevention.  Sexual harassment, abuse, and assault are widespread problems that occur in all communities.  Approximately 1 in 6 men, 1 in 5 women, and 1 in 2 transgender/non-binary people will experience sexual violence in their lifetime.  As a College community, we all play an important role in preventing sexual violence and each of us have the power to create communities that are safe and respectful in which all flourish. 

Confidential reporting is available to students through Counseling Services, Campus Ministries, Student Health Center, and the Silent Witness online form.  Off-campus confidential resources are also available through SUNYSAVR. Students seeking help may freely contact the Maritime College Title IX Office, which provides support, resources, and reporting options to students, staff, and faculty.  Please contact the Title IX Coordinator for more information.

As one of his presidential actions, President Biden issued a proclamation declaring April 2021 National Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Month.  In the proclamation President Biden states, “We must rededicate ourselves to creating a society where sexual violence — including sexual assault and sexual harassment — is not tolerated, where survivors are supported, and where all people have an opportunity to thrive without fear of abuse or assault.”

Below are a few ways for students to actively participate in local activities during Sexual Assault Awareness Month. 

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
In recognition of SAAM, students attending Bronx colleges are invited to submit art, poetry, writing, songs, or any other artistic pieces in response to the prompt, "What Does Survivorship Mean to You?" The Enough is Enough Program Coordinators at the Office of the Bronx District Attorney's Office and Kingsbridge Heights Community Center will collect the submissions and, with students’ permission, post them on the KHCC Enough is Enough Instagram @khcceie.  Any student who submits work will receive a Starbucks or Dunkin' gift card.  For questions or to submit pieces, email thompsonsc@bronxda.nyc.gov.

WHAT NO ONE KNEW… THE JOURNEY AFTER THE OUTCRY: A STORY OF LOSS, HEALING AND STRENGTH

On Thursday, April 15, from 6:00-7:30 PM, a Bronx survivor and her mother speak about what it is like to have a loved one experience harm.  Their story will be followed by a panel discussion on secondary victims and supporting loved ones who experience sexual violence.  Register for the Zoom event here: https://bit.ly/3dpwT50

ALL COLLEGE SEXUAL ASSAULT ZOOM MEETING
On Thursday, April 22, at 5:30 PM, join an All College Sexual Assault Event Zoom meeting with opening remarks from Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark.  Register for the All College Sexual Assault Event Zoom meeting here: https://bit.ly/3cid1l2.