April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. The goal of this designation is to raise awareness regarding sexual violence and educate on prevention.
April 2020 is different than prior years because of the COVID-19 outbreak, travel restrictions have been placed on service members and civilian dependents. This may lead to many feeling isolated and unaware of the resources available regarding the reporting of sexual assault or abuse.
As we all work to slow the spread of COVID-19, we must continue to ensure the effectiveness of reporting sexual assault and abuse by providing victims of sexual assault and abuse awareness of the resources available to assist them. Ineffective reporting during this time may have an overall chilling effect on future reporting. Ensuring that we create a culture where victims are comfortable with reporting sexual assault allows victims to continue with the healing process, enables the military justice system to hold perpetrators accountable and provides the Air Force the crucial data it needs to continue striving to effectively and efficiently combat sexual assault.
“Increasing effective prevention methods is a responsibility we all share and it can come in many forms,” said Capt. Casey Randall, Office of the Special Victims’ Counsel. “While prevention education is often aimed at the actions of the potential victims, everyone has a part to play in prevention. Though sexual assault is rarely a public crime, bystanders can take small steps to prevent sexual assault from occurring. These steps could be as simple as helping someone to get safely home and away from potential perpetrators or making sure no one is left alone while awaiting their designated driver.”
During this unique time of COVID-19 and staying at home, this assistance can be as simple as checking-in on friends or family. According to Rainn.org, 8 out of 10 rapes are perpetuated by an individual the victim knows, to include current spouses or intimate partners. What this means during COVID-19 is, potentially, victims may be “stuck” at home for extended periods of time cohabitating in a toxic relationship.
“Reaching out to your colleagues, Airmen, friends and asking how they are doing, inquiring about their day, or offering resources when you believe they may be needed could be the support they need to report an assault and get help,” said Randall. “Even with all the measures in place in response to COVID-19, there is help available. Protecting the people protects the mission!”
Below is a list of local and national resources available to help those who have been a victim of sexual assault
Local:
Base Sexual Assault Prevention and Response 24/7 Helpline: (402) 232-9999
Office of the Special Victims’ Counsel: (402) 294-9473
Nationwide:
The Department of Defense Safe Helpline: (877) 995-5247
The National Sexual Assault Hotline: (800) 656-HOPE (4613)