Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time to learn how to build connected communities and enhance awareness of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse.

Show your support by wearing teal on April 2, 2025, in recognition of survivors and to help raise awareness.

The History of Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Efforts to raise awareness of sexual violence in the U.S. date back to the 1970s, when advocates first organized protests like Take Back the Night. By the 1990s, Sexual Assault Awareness Week had expanded into a month-long observance, and in 2001, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) officially declared April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). Today, SAAM continues to promote education, prevention, and support for survivors.

Understanding the Impact

Sexual violence is a widespread issue affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Consider these statistics (Source: NSVRC Statistics):

• 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience sexual violence involving physical contact in their lifetime.

• More than 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men have experienced sexual harassment.

• 81% of women and 43% of men report experiencing some form of sexual harassment or assault in their lifetime.

• Only 1 in 3 sexual assaults are reported to the police.

• More than 90% of sexual assault survivors on college campuses do not report their assault.

Title IX: Rights & Reporting

Title IX is a federal law that protects individuals from discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities, including protection from sexual harassment, assault, and other forms of sexual misconduct.

Missouri State University Title IX Resources:

• Reporting Options: If you or someone you know has experienced sexual misconduct, you can report it to the Title IX Office at Missouri State University.

• Supportive Measures: Confidential resources and accommodations are available for students and employees.

Resources for Support

NSVRC Resources:

• Missouri Raliance Rape-Crisis Centers List

• Online Resources for Survivors

• National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline

MSU Resources:

• Self-Defense Tactics Classes – Employee Wellness periodically offers self-defense classes. Watch the Employee Wellness Blog for future dates.

• University Safety is available 24/7, providing services like Safe Walk and blue light telephones. Save their number for quick access: 417-836-5509.

• Crisis Support is available through Mercy EAP at no charge for full- and part-time employees. Call 800-413-8008 #2 for assistance.

• Mental Health Counseling is a covered service under MSU medical plans. Find a participating provider in the Mercy Provider Directory or contact Magers Health and Wellness Center at 417-836-4000.

• Leave for Survivors – Full- and part-time employees who have experienced domestic or sexual violence (or have a family/household member who has) may be eligible for unpaid leave under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 285.630. See Policy 7.21 for more details.

Stay informed with HR news, benefits updates, and professional development opportunities by following the HR Blog.

For employee wellness updates, including future Self-Defense Tactics classes, follow the Wellness Blog.