Haven Hosts 9th Annual Walk for Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Together, we can take action to support survivors of sexual violence and create a safer community for all.
The theme of Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2023 is “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity.” This April's campaign calls on all individuals, communities, organizations, and institutions to change ourselves and the systems surrounding us to build racial equity and respect.
Photo Credit: National Sexual Violence Resource Center
By Cole Goodwin
Join the community in support of survivors of sexual violence and take action during Sexual Assault Awareness Action Month.
Haven, a local non-profit organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault, is hosting its 9th annual "10,000 Steps Towards Healing" walk on Wednesday, April 19th, 2023 at 11:30 a.m. The walk will begin outside of the Haven office, located at 420 E 3rd St. The Dalles, OR, and proceed through downtown The Dalles.
Walking with purpose, participants will log 10,000 steps to support survivors of sexual violence and raise awareness for this important local and global issue. The event will also serve as a platform to highlight Haven's ongoing work to provide resources and support for those affected by sexual assault in our communities.
Haven will be accepting donations of toiletries, hygiene products, diapers, baby wipes, and Fred Meyer gift cards at the walk. Your contributions will directly benefit sexual assault and domestic violence survivors and their families who are in need of these essential items.
While previous Haven walks have seen strong support from community partners but this year Haven is calling on community members to take action and participate in the event.
"We'd like to see more members of the community participate," said one Haven walk committee member.
In addition to the walk, Haven urges community members to continue taking action to raise awareness about sexual assault resources in our communities and create a culture of safety by letting the people in your life know that you are a safe and supportive person to talk to about sexual assault.
Other ways to participate in Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April include:
Helping Hands Against Violence and the Hood River Library invite you to design a t-shirt to raise awareness on April 3rd from 10 a.m. -5 p.m. and the Hood River Library Conference room. Shirts and design materials will be provided. After you finish your shirt, hang it on the clothesline on the Hood River Library Lawn.
Can’t attend the event but want to submit a shirt to be included the project?
Email prevention@helpinghandsoregon.org or call 541-386, 4808.
Attend a Speak Out in Stevenson, WA
On Saturday April 15th, the Skamania County Women's Council will host a day of healing, support, and connection in recognition of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Join them for the speak out, taco feast, art project, or dance. Or all!
Youth changemakers ages 5-18 are invited to participate in their 2023 Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity campaign to address issues of anti-bullying, diversity, ableism awareness, anti-racism, consent, empowerment, body positivity, social justice, and more.
Learn how oppression impacts rates of sexual assault.
”We can’t end sexual violence without also ending racism,” says the NSVRC.
Declare your support of survivors.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is a time to draw attention to the prevalence of sexual assault and educate individuals and communities about how to prevent it. Use this proclamation as a clear declaration to join advocates and communities across the country in taking action to prevent sexual violence.
Take part in the 30 Days of SAAM Instagram Challenge.
Join advocates, activists, survivors, and supporters who are getting involved in Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April on Instagram. Daily prompts encourage creative ways for you to raise awareness, educate, and connect with others — plus you have a chance to win prizes every day you participate.
Find out how to help a sexual assault survivor in your life.
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center has put together this handy guide to help friends and family support the survivors of sexual violence in their lives.
Read up on the history of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
This year marks the 22nd anniversary of SAAM.
Donate.
Support survivors in your community by donating to organizations such as Haven from Domestic and Sexual Violence, Helping Hands Against Violence who provide vital services to sexual assault survivors in your area.
If you or someone you know is seeking support for sexual assault, please call Haven at 541-296-1662 or Helping Hands Against Violence at 541-386-4808.
If you are in crisis, please dial Haven's crisis line at 1-800-249-4789.
