Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Every April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) invites us to confront the reality of sexual violence in our communities—and recommit to a future where consent is non-negotiable, survivors are believed, and everyone feels safe.

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This year’s national theme from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is:

“Building Connected Communities.”
Because when we foster trust, respect, and empathy, we create environments that protect and empower.

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At Christina’s Courage, the only rape and crisis center serving the Florida Keys, this month is deeply personal. We know the ripple effects of trauma. We know the strength it takes to survive. And we know change starts with community.

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💙 Why SAAM Matters

Sexual violence is not rare.

• 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men will experience sexual violence in their lifetime.
• Most survivors are harmed by someone they know.
• And most will never report it—often due to fear, stigma, or lack of support.

Awareness matters because it breaks silence.
Education matters because it prevents harm.
Action matters because survivors deserve more than acknowledgment—they deserve care.

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How You Can Take Action This April

SAAM isn’t just for advocates—it’s for all of us. Whether you're a parent, teacher, neighbor, friend, or business owner, your voice matters. Here's how you can get involved:

✅ Learn and Share

• Follow the conversation using #SAAM
• Share facts, resources, and survivor-centered messaging on your social platforms
• Download the NSVRC’s SAAM Toolkit →

✅ Wear Teal

Teal is the color of sexual violence prevention. Wear teal throughout April—especially on Teal Day (April 2, 2024)—to show solidarity with survivors.

✅ Join Local Events

Attend awareness walks, educational workshops, and our annual Take Back the Night later this year. Every time you show up, you help create safer spaces.

✅ Support Christina’s Courage

Your donations fund life-saving services like therapy, forensic exams, and legal advocacy. Donate here →

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Words Matter: How to Talk About Sexual Assault

• Believe survivors.
• Use person-first, empowering language.
• Challenge victim-blaming and harmful myths when you hear them.
• Talk to your kids about consent and boundaries early and often.

Prevention begins with education. And education starts with conversations like these.

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What We Offer Year-Round

At Christina’s Courage, survivors can access:

• Free forensic exams (SANE exams)
• Licensed trauma counseling
• Legal advocacy and protective orders
• Support for families and friends
• Community outreach and prevention education

📞 If you or someone you know needs support:
Call the statewide 24/7 hotline: 1-888-956-7273
Or reach us directly at: 305-916-0673

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Together, We Build a Safer Tomorrow

Sexual Assault Awareness Month is about more than recognizing trauma—it’s about building communities that reject it altogether. That starts with listening, believing, and standing beside survivors every day of the year.

Thank you for being part of the movement.
Thank you for showing up.

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