April 1, 2024
According to the CDC, sexual violence is any sexual activity when consent is not obtained or freely given. Sexual violence does not discriminate and affects people of all ages, races, ethnicities, nationalities, genders, abilities, and socio-economic statuses. During the month of April, Crime Victim Services aims to raise awareness of this important and pervasive issue.
Unfortunately, sexual violence happens more than most people realize. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men experience sexual violence in their lifetimes. While the rates of reported completed or attempted rape are as follows:
· 1 in 4 women and 1 in 26 men;
· 1 in 4 Black women, 1 in 4 White women, 1 in 5 Hispanic Women, and 1 in 4 Asian/Pacific Islander women;
· 3% of Black men, 4% White men, 3% Hispanic men, and 6% multiracial men;
· 1 in 4 lesbian women and almost half of bisexual women;
· 25% of gay men; and
· 2 in 5 females with disabilities and 1 in 4 males with disabilities report completed or attempted rape in their lifetimes.
We recognize that marginalized and minority communities are at greater risk of sexual and interpersonal violence. We have hope, however, that we can end violence and oppression in our community. Our national theme for the month is “Building Connected Communities.”
The Day One program at Crime Victim Services exists to serve survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking. We provide a 24/7 crisis line; 24/7 hospital advocacy; legal advocacy; and case management and supportive services. We provide management for our local Child Advocacy Center serving children who have been sexually abused. Our work is not in isolation, more than a dozen community partners serve in this endeavor with us and countless individuals working to end sexual violence.
During the month of April, our Day One program is collaborating with several Lima area businesses for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Check out the following businesses and individuals to enjoy their goods and services but also to support the work of Day One and learn more about how you can prevent sexual violence:
· The Meeting Place
· Phoenix Nutrition
· Beauty by Jill
· Winans Coffee & Chocolate
· Central District
· Touch of Europe
· Plush
· The Grind
· Lady Red
The community is also invited to Pound & Paint at The Bradfield Community Center on April 26, 2024 from 5:30-7:30pm. Come enjoy an evening of learning, Cardio Drumming with Lady Red, and umbrella painting with our Day One Team!
This April, reach out to Crime Victim Services’ Day One program at, 419-222-8666, to learn how you can support efforts to end sexual violence.