In the opening of the month of October the leaves begin to change, the crisp fall air makes itself known, and the autumn beckons a slew of month-long events designed to promote awareness about certain issues affecting many individuals.
The month of October is dedicated to bringing about sexual assault and domestic violence awareness.
Coordinated by the Crisis Center in Bristol, Va., the events held this month educate people about various aspects of the issues.
Many are often times shocked or surprised to learn about the alarming numbers associated with sexual assault and domestic violence.
“Awareness about this month is minimal,” said Sandra Rasnake, sexual assault program director, “Some of the other issues many times get more attention,” said Rasnake. However, the numbers are so alarming, that this is something everyone should be aware [of].”
Sexual violence occurs whenever a person is forced to submit to another person against his or her will.
Anyone can be a victim regardless of sex, age, race, appearance or economic status.
Sexual assault is the fastest growing crime in America, and one in four women and one in seven men will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime.
Sexual assault is also the most under-reported crime in the United States.
Victims of sexual assault may experience guilt, denial, embarrassment, fear and anger.
Approximately 70 percent of all victims fear that people will blame them if they report the crime.
Rasnake explained that one of the mentalities that we as a nation must strive to rid ourselves of is the idea that if a woman dresses provocatively or is under the influence of drugs or alchohol that she was partly at fault.
A victim is never to blame for an assault.
Everyone has a role in eliminating sexual violence, even if one has never been involved in a case of sexual assault.
“People need to hold themselves accountable for their own attitudes and actions,” Rasnake said. “The attitude that no one deserves to be raped needs to be adopted.
“We must also remember that rape is not about sex, but about power and control.”
Starting Oct. 14, a week full of seminars and events will be held.
The Crisis Center will be sponsoring several events including a Take Back the Night candlelight vigil to honor survivors, booths at area libraries and colleges, events at the Sexual Assault Response Center in Johnson City, and a survivor garden will be planted.
The Crisis Center’s Sexual Assault Program began July 1, 1987.
The program is designed to help victims deal with the trauma of sexual assault. The center’s staff and volunteer’s provide services and needed help.
To show your support for survivors, wear a purple ribbon through the month of October for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
For a ribbon or more information call the Crisis Center at (276)466-2312 or (276)628-7731.

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