April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising public awareness about sexual violence and educating the community on how to prevent it. Sexual violence refers to a range of behaviors and actions aimed at asserting power and control over another person through sexual means. It includes non-consensual sexual contact, coercion, manipulation, and exploitation. It remains a pervasive issue globally, affecting children and adults of all ages, gender identities, and backgrounds. The spectrum of sexual violence includes all types of unwanted sexual contact, from catcalling to rape. Below are some of its types:
- Sexual Harassment – This refers to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or offensive environment.
- Sexual Assault – It encompasses a broader range of non-consensual sexual acts, including groping, fondling, and any form of unwanted sexual contact.
- Rape – This involves non-consensual sexual intercourse. It can occur through physical force, coercion, threats, or incapacitation due to substances.
One of the most significant challenges in addressing sexual violence is the culture of silence and the stigma surrounding it. Many survivors hesitate to come forward due to fear of not being believed, victim-blaming, or retaliation. As a result, compiling accurate global statistics is often challenging. However, it is estimated that about 1 in 3 women globally experience physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime. Most perpetrators are often someone survivors know, such as a partner, friend, classmate, neighbor, coworker, relative, family member, or acquaintance. This diversity in perpetrators highlights that sexual violence knows no boundaries and can occur in any setting, including homes, workplaces, schools, and public spaces. Each type may have unique dynamics and consequences, but they all share the common thread of violating an individual’s autonomy and dignity. By understanding these various forms of sexual violence, we can address and prevent them effectively.
As we observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Eleison reaffirms its commitment to ending sexual violence in all its forms, standing in solidarity with survivors and advocates worldwide. Through raising awareness, supporting survivors, and promoting prevention efforts, we can create a society where everyone can live free from the fear of sexual violence.
