NICOLAS MARTINEZ

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The theme of this year is “Prevention is Possible.” As an ally and a friend, and someone who believes survivors first above anything else, I feel the most I can do is to at least bring attention to the issue in a way that fosters discussion and thoughtful reflection. My hope are that some day, people won’t have to worry about sexual violence as an every day occurrence. I want to also highlight that sexual violence can take many different forms, as described here.  Bottom line, we need a culture of consent, respect, empathy, and equity. This will not be easy, but it is possible. Preventing assault like this is not just a women’s issue. Preventing sexual violence is important for all of us.

Please remember in the following weeks and beyond, prevention is possible.