Love shouldn’t hurt

Love Shouldn't Hurt - Ever

Wednesday, 30 April 2025 08:08

Closing Out Sexual Assault Awareness Month
by Teresia Smith

For one month each year, we shine a spotlight on an issue that is often hidden in the shadows, and we reaffirm our commitment to building a world where sexual assault is no longer tolerated. However, this conversation should not end when April does. Sexual assault awareness and prevention must be ongoing, just as the journey of healing and support for survivors continues year-round.
Each year our mission remains the same during this month: to educate, raise awareness, and prevent sexual violence. By speaking openly about the prevalence of sexual assault, the stigma surrounding survivors, and the impact these crimes have on individuals and communities, we take steps toward breaking down the barriers of silence and shame. By simply acknowledging that sexual assault is a serious issue and is happening in every community and across every demographic, we create an environment where survivors feel supported and empowered to come forward without fear of judgment.

One of the most effective ways to combat sexual violence is through education and prevention. Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as a reminder that education should begin early and continue throughout life. Whether it’s teaching young people about healthy relationships, consent, and boundaries, or providing training for adults on how to support survivors, the goal is to create a culture where sexual violence is not tolerated. Communities that foster a culture of respect and responsibility are more likely to prevent sexual violence from happening in the first place.
Although Sexual Assault Awareness Month brings much-needed attention to the issue, the work of supporting survivors and preventing future violence must continue throughout the year. Survivors need consistent access to resources, support, and safe spaces where they can heal without judgment. This means ensuring that services like crisis counseling, legal assistance, SANE nurses, advocacy and support groups are available to all who need them and funding must remain in place so those services are accessible.

Ending sexual violence requires collective action. Each of us has the ability to make a difference. Whether it’s through sharing information, volunteering at a local organization, or supporting a survivor, we can all contribute to the movement to end sexual violence. Let’s continue the conversations that have been started, and work together to create a safer world for everyone. Sexual Assault Awareness Month may end, but our commitment to change must not. Together, we can create lasting transformation, and it starts with each of us standing up, speaking out, and offering support whenever and wherever it’s needed.

We at Crisis Services of North Alabama are here to walk beside you in your journey to healing after sexual assault. We have an office in Jackson County you may call at 256.574.5826 to reach an advocate today. We also offer a 24/7 HELPline at 256.716.1000 where you can speak with a trained crisis counselor at any time. Our services are free and confidential for survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence. Please reach out. You are not alone.