Sexual Assault Awareness

I had to attend an organizational assembly today on how rapes hurt women, and men for that matter, and what you can do to prevent it. I think this is a topic that many might not think about a lot or don't consider that people everyday do through a traumatic experience such as fordable rape.

Many victims blame themselves for years after the sexual assault occurs. For women, was my skirt too short? Maybe if I didn't lead him on, or smile at him the wrong way, or maybe if I didn't walk home alone at night. Then for men, maybe I should have been more careful who I was associating with, or did I give her some reason to think that this was okay?

The truth is, sexual assault is NEVER the victims fault. No matter any of the circumstances, the victim had nothing to do with the assault and the person that forced themselves onto the victim is, and will always, be to blame. 

After hearing many stories from victims of sexual assault, it made me think that this is an issue I definitely don't consider a lot when I am alone, or even when I trust someone who I believe is my friend, and I'm sure a lot of others don't considerate as well. 

There's always precautions people can take to lower your chances of becoming assaulted. When going out at night, always stay with at least one of your friends, and don't trust ANYONE. We have all been there when you meet someone at a party or at a friend's house and you think they're really cute, charming, and attractive, but for all you know, that person you just met could try to take advantage of you. 

If you or anyone you know is ever a victim of sexual, or any assault, for that matter, there are several people you can talk to. Bringing charges against the attacker is one of the best things you can do. Nobody should be able to do that to someone and get away with it. Second, confide in your parents. They ill understand and they will help you get your security, and most importantly, your life back. There are also thousands of support groups that you can go to and talk about your experience and they will listen to you and guide you through a recovery process. Just remember, the victim is never wrong and there's always someone here for them to guide them back to recovery, even if they don't realize it.