April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month.  The observance began in 2001 and is coordinated by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC).  This year’s theme is “Preventing Sexual Violence …in our workplaces.”  Studies indicate that 36,500 rapes or sexual assaults occurred in the workplace from 1993-1999.  In addition, there are 12,000 reports of sexual harassment on the job each year.  These assaults have lasting consequences for the victims: almost 50% of rape victims lose their jobs or are forced to quit.  Through Sexual Assault Awareness Month, NSVRC aims to raise awareness on these issues and educate employers and individuals on ways to prevent sexual violence.

For more information on this year’s campaign and to learn how to get involved, visit http://www.nsvrc.org/saam/current-campaign