HARDWICK – Sexual Violence Awareness Month (SVAM) is observed throughout the month of April. The annual campaign to raise public awareness and educate communities on preventing sexual violence and abuse is sometimes referred to as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM).
photo by Paul Fixx
For those who may be unfamiliar with the terms, sexual violence includes experiences such as sexual assault, abuse, harassment, stalking and exploitation.
Reaching its twenty-fifth anniversary, this year’s SVAM theme is “25 years stronger: looking back, moving forward,” honoring the history of the movement while reaffirming commitment to survivors and advocates.
Area expert, AWARE Executive Director Miranda Elkins recently said, “This theme really resonates with our work at AWARE. While the national campaign marks 25 years of awareness efforts, AWARE has been serving this community for over 40 years. That long-standing presence has given us a unique perspective on how conversations around sexual violence have evolved over time.”
She continued, “We have seen meaningful progress. There is more awareness, more survivor-centered support, and more willingness to have these conversations. At the same time, we know there is still a lot of work to do.
“Locally, this means continuing to build on that progress while also recognizing the gaps that still exist, especially in rural communities. At AWARE, we focus on meeting people where they are, providing individualized advocacy, and making sure survivors feel believed, supported and not alone. Looking forward means continuing to strengthen those supports and deepen our community’s understanding of the impact of sexual violence.”
While SVAM falls during the month of April, AWARE works year-round to provide resources for the surrounding communities, collaborating with the Clarina Howard Nichols Center in Lamoille County.
Elkins shared examples of their continued efforts; “While April brings important visibility, this work happens year-round, and there are many ways for community members to stay involved. Throughout April, we are partnering on several awareness efforts, including co-hosting Take Back the Night with Clarina Howard Nichols Center on April 29 at 5 p.m., in Morrisville at the Oxbow Park. This event brings community members together to speak out, support survivors, and raise awareness. We are also participating in Denim Day, which involves wearing jeans in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence, April 29, as a way to spark conversation and challenge harmful myths about sexual violence.”
Additionally, AWARE is part of a community book group this month centered around “Nobody’s Girl” by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, a space for learning, reflection and discussion.
Beyond April, AWARE hosts several events that help sustain their work and keep the community engaged, including the annual AWARE Walk on September 19, which will include new elements this year such as Silent Witness displays and the option to participate as a team; a summer gala event on August 9 as well as the annual Fall Foliage Craft Fair on October 3.
“People can also support AWARE by volunteering, donating, sharing resources and helping create a community where survivors are met with compassion and respect,” Elkins said.
According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, preventing sexual abuse, assault and harassment takes action on every level. She elaborated on this shared responsibility as a community: “Preventing sexual violence is truly a shared responsibility. It is not just about responding after harm has occurred. It is about creating a culture where harm is less likely to happen in the first place.”
Elkins provided examples, “That can look like believing and supporting survivors, speaking up when we hear harmful language or see concerning behavior, teaching and modeling healthy relationships and boundaries, and creating safe, respectful environments in our workplaces, schools, and communities. It can also be as simple as helping someone take the next step toward support. This might mean sharing AWARE’s information, offering to sit with them while they call, or letting them know they do not have to navigate things alone.”
Concluding, “Everyone has a role to play, and even small actions can make a meaningful difference,” she says.
Elkins had a final message for the community; “Sexual Violence Awareness Month is an important opportunity to center survivors and bring visibility to an issue that is often kept quiet. At AWARE, we are committed to this work every day, and we are grateful to be part of a community that continues to show up, learn, and support one another. If you have questions about events or would like to get more involved, please call us at 1-802-472-6463 or email aware@vtlink.net.”
Raymonda Parchment is a Hardwick Gazette reporter. She recently graduated from Vermont State University - Castleton with a Bachelor’s Degree in English. She is a strong supporter of freedom of speech, and the right to publish information, opinions, and ideas without censorship or restraint. She is a lifelong lover of the written word, and is excited to join the team as a staff member.
