April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Dyess' sexual assault response coordinator, base commanders and the command chief have rallied together to promote April events that will increase awareness and prevention of sexual harassment and assault.

Specifically, April 5 is designated as the "Day to End Sexual Violence," and this year's theme is, "Stand up against sexual assault - make a difference." Events include a luncheon to honor victim advocates April 5, a poetry slam April 13, a SARC open house April 23, and a candlelight vigil April 26.

"This is about creating a climate in the community that says, 'Sexual violence is not ok,' and looking out for each other," said Staci Vileta, Dyess' SARC.

The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program is Department of Defense-wide, according to the U.S. DoD SAPR office, and is in place to ensure the safety, dignity and well-being of all members of the armed forces.

"Preventing sexual crimes is infinitely better than responding to them," Staci said. "It's great to have a program in place that responds to a victim's needs, but we owe it to ourselves as individuals to practice risk management."  Read more at dyess.af.mil.