Special to Tiger Media Network
Jana’s Campaign is joining millions of people across the country to educate and engage the public in addressing the widespread issue of sexual violence. The term “sexual violence” is an all-encompassing term that refers to crimes such as sexual assault, rape, and sexual abuse. Occurring each April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) raises awareness about how sexual violence truly impacts every person from all ages, genders, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds.
According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) most recent report from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (2023), 53% of women and over 29% of men have experienced contact sexual violence in their lifetime. These numbers are likely higher as many incidents go unreported due to survivors feeling ashamed, embarrassed, or afraid to disclose to the police, friends, or family about the violence. Statistics are even more staggering for young adults. More than half of all female victims and one-third of all male victims of contact sexual violence first experienced victimization before the age of 18 regardless of sexual identity.
During the month of April, Jana’s Campaign is collaborating with Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (Hays, KS) for the following events:
• Hays Chamber Chat, on Friday, April 5th, at 9 a.m., outside the Ellis County Courthouse (107 W 12th St).
• Film screening of “Audrie & Daisy,” followed by a panel discussion on Wednesday, April 24th, from 5-8 p.m., in the FHSU Memorial Union Ballroom.
• Interactive Art Exhibit on Thursday, April 25th, from 6-8 p.m., at the Outdoor Pavilion in Downtown Hays (117 E 10th St).
In addition, Jana’s Campaign encourages the public to utilize their online SAAM toolkit, located on their website JanasCampaign.org, to learn more about sexual violence and how we can all work together to eradicate this public health issue. Supporters can also join national social media efforts by participating in #30DaysofSAAM Instagram challenge hosted by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), RAINN Day (April 14), and Denim Day (April 24).
If you would like to learn more about how you can support Jana’s Campaign in reducing gender and relationship violence go to www.JanasCampaign.org.