Even before its official declaration, SAAM was about both awareness and prevention of sexual assault, harassment, and abuse. Looking at the history of the movement to end sexual violence, it’s clear why:
It’s impossible to prevent an issue no one knows about, and it’s difficult to make people aware of a problem without providing a solution.
The two work in tandem, and they always have. From the civil rights movement to the founding of the first rape crisis centers to national legislation and beyond, the roots of SAAM run deep. See Respect Together’s legacy video highlighting the anti-sexual violence movement’s progress over the years here!
The Future of SAAM
The history of SAAM has shown us that, no matter what, those who want to end sexual assault and abuse will always find ways to advocate for awareness and prevention. Looking forward, we can be sure that SAAM will continue to grow and adapt, reaching even more audiences with the message that a world free of sexual assault and abuse is possible.
WE CAN BUILD SAFE ONLINE SPACES.
Sexual harassment, assault, and abuse can happen anywhere, including in online spaces. As we connect online, we can learn how to practice digital consent, intervene when we see harmful content or behaviors, and ensure that online spaces — whether they be workspaces, classrooms, social media platforms, or otherwise — are respectful and safe.
What is online sexual abuse?
Online sexual abuse can be any type of sexual harassment, exploitation, or abuse that takes place through screens.
Forms of online sexual harassment or abuse:
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Sending someone hateful or unwelcome comments based on sex
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Sending unwanted requests to partners or strangers to send nude photos or videos or livestream sexual acts.
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Performing sexual acts on webcam without the consent of everyone involved or in inappropriate settings (like during an online work meeting).
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Sharing private images or videos without the consent of everyone involved, also known as revenge porn, which is illegal.
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Sharing porn in spaces where everyone has not consented to view it (like in Zoom meetings or other inappropriate places, also called Zoom bombing).
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Grooming children to enable their sexual abuse either online or offline.
Just because these forms of sexual abuse take place behind a screen doesn’t make their impact on the victim any less real. While some of these behaviors are crimes, particularly any that involve sexual abuse of children, others are just as harmful. Additionally, as images of abuse could be reshared and recirculated on the internet, there is an added layer of revictimization.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) (nsvrc.org)