April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and in our community, organizations work to make sure survivors are not alone.
“Sexual assault isn’t something that discriminates; it’s something that can happen to anyone at any age from any socioeconomic background,” said Amy Blackman, the co-assistant director of the Crime Victim Center of Erie County.
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Here in Erie, sexual assault awareness is reflected through agencies like the Crime Victim Center and SafeNet. For those impacted, these organizations provide resources and offer support to survivors.
“It’s not okay for someone to be hurting you, that you can reach out, and that we’re a confidential listening ear,” said Robyn Young, the executive director of SafeNet.
“We’re open 24/7 as far as our hotline goes, so they can always reach out, call us, talk with us,” said Blackman.
These organizations said the first step to prevention is education— learning about respect and consent.
“Having those conversations, making this a topic that people feel safe to talk about, comfortable to discuss, and having those conversations about consent and respect all the way through the lifespan,” said Blackman. “Being aware of your surroundings, knowing who you’re going with, where you’re going, checking in with individuals.”
Reducing the risk of vulnerability and checking in with loved ones are also essential to staying safe.
“If you think that you might have a friend who’s in a bad relationship or their partner is doing something to hurt them, talk to them about it,” said Young.
The Crime Victim Center and SafeNet are available 24/7 to survivors in need of support.
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