April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time to raise awareness, support survivors, and foster education around the critical issue of sexual assault. Throughout this month, we come together to recognize the importance of understanding and preventing sexual violence in our communities.
This blog contains sensitive information that may be difficult for some, discretion is advised
Sexual Assault Awareness Month Theme
The 2025 SAAM theme is “Together We Act, United We Change.” This theme highlights the importance of working together to address and prevent sexual abuse, assault, and harassment. When workplaces, schools, and communities work together to uphold safety and respect, we make progress in preventing sexual violence.
Led by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), they state, “Together, we act with purpose! United, we have the power to change the world for the better.”
Understanding Sexual Violence
Sexual violence impacts everyone, anyone can be a victim, and people who commit sexual violence exist in all of our communities. Because of this, it is crucial that we all care about sexual violence and take steps to promote safety.
According to the NSVRC, sexual violence is an umbrella term that includes any type of unwanted sexual contact – including sexual abuse, assault, and harassment.
Sexual violence comes in many forms, including:
- Rape or sexual assault
- Sexual harassment
- Sexual abuse
- Unwanted sexual contact/touching
- Sexual exploitation and trafficking
- Exposing genitals or naked body to others without consent
- Nonconsensual image sharing
- And, words or actions of a sexual nature without consent
Statistics
Sexual violence is a pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals each year, regardless of age, gender, or background. In fact, statistics reveal the alarming prevalence of sexual assault, underscoring the urgent need for awareness, prevention, and support. Some of these statistics state that:
- Over 53% of women and over 29% of men reported experiencing contact sexual violence
- More than 1 and 4 non-Hispanic Black women (29%) in the United States were raped in their lifetime
- And, 1 in 3 Hispanic women reported unwanted sexual contact in their lifetime
Get Involved!
There are countless ways you can get involved to help educate others and raise awareness during Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
The Day of Action (April 1st) is an opportunity to start off the month with visible and coordinated actions. This is a great time to plan events, post SAAM-related content on social media, or participate in the #30DaysofSAAM Instagram challenge. On the Day of Action, wear the color Teal to show your support for survivors of sexual violence and post pictures on X (Twitter) or Instagram using #SAAM2025.
The #30DaysofSAAM Instagram challenge consists of daily prompts to encourage creative ways to raise awareness, educate, and connect with others. The NSVRC provides additional information, along with a calendar consisting of prompts for the challenge.
Additionally, the NSVRC provides graphics for social media and donation information.
Safety For Workers
Sexual violence can occur anywhere, including your workplace. JJ Safety offers training and additional safety content for Sexual Harassment. For more information please visit our website or call us at 866-627-3850.
Conclusion
Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the importance of raising awareness, supporting survivors, and working towards a world free from violence. By educating ourselves, speaking out, and actively engaging in efforts to prevent sexual violence, we can create a safer and more compassionate society. Every step—no matter how small—contributes to a larger movement of change. Let this month inspire lasting action, and remember, together, we can make a difference.