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May was originally declared “Sexual Assault Awareness Month” (SAAM) in 1988. The “NO MORE” campaign springs from the Joyful Heart Foundation in the U.S. and is now international. The new and original #StandByHer Campaign is the Social Action Committee of Durham’s appeal to the whole community to eliminate “the “bystander” effect and to safely implement bystander intervention to prevent sexual assault and violence against women.

 

To kick off this initiative all 8 Municipalities in Durham region have been invited to issue a proclamation on May 1st, 2017

Victims of sexual assault often experience short-term consequences including guilt, shame, fear, numbness, shock, and feelings of isolation. Victims may also experience long-term health risks and behaviors such as PTSD, eating disorders, depression, pregnancy, and STI.

“The theme of the 2017 SAAM campaign is, "Engaging New Voices" The theme builds on the idea that the movement to end sexual violence is stronger when everyone is involved. The campaign hopes to engage new partners and community members in expanding sexual assault prevention efforts and help the next generation foster attitudes that promote healthy relationships, equality, and respect.” Stephanie Brown, @SACDurham, Director, Youth Ambassador quotes NSVRC.

We all have a role to play in the prevention of sexual assault. New voices in the movement will have a ripple effect on those they teach, guide, and influence. The good news is that prevention is possible and it’s beginning. Some individuals, employers, educators, health practitioners and the private sector are already taking proactive measures to reduce the risk of sexual violence through conversations, programs, policies, and research-based tools that promote safety, respect, and equality.

The goals of the month of May’s #SAAM #StandByHer and #NOMORE Sexual Assault or Woman Abuse campaign are:

1. To raise awareness of and express belief in victims of sexual assault and men’s violence against women by wearing teal and/or purple ribbons on the 15th & 31st of May, or all month

2. To stand in solidarity with victims of sexual assault and abused women and support them in understanding that any shame and/or blame they may feel as a result of the assault or abuse they have experienced (or are experiencing) does not belong to them but to the perpetrator of the assault and/or abuse; & (Recognize & STOP Victim Blaming & “Bystanding”)
 

3. To raise the profile of community agencies that can provide victims of sexual assault and/or abused women with help as they attempt to live their lives free from fear, violence and abuse.
 

Why Teal? Why Purple?
In 2000, Teal was officially adopted as a symbol of sexual assault awareness and prevention.
Purple, a symbol of courage, survival and honour, now symbolizes the fight to end woman abuse.

The Social Action Committee of Durham is proudly launching the 1st Annual

#SAAM #StandByHer and #NOMORE Campaigns