Content warning: This article contains mention of sexual assault.
The month of April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). SAAM’s goal is to raise awareness, educate communities about sexual assault and empower and support victims of sexual assault. SAAM also pushes to help create prevention efforts against sexual assault and fight the stigma victims face.
Since 2020, Iowa State has seen 56 individual crimes within the realm of sexual assault, according to the Iowa State University 2022 Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. Even though the report for 2023 has not been released yet, a large number of assaults will be added to that list.
Iowa State has multiple facets and apps for safety that are easy to use for students. The Iowa State University Police Department is almost always patrolling the campus, and Iowa State Safe is easy to use if you feel unsafe, would like someone to monitor your walk home or even request a ride home.
One in every six American women are victims of sexual assault. Approximately 463,648 people ages 12 and older become victims of sexual assault every year, according to RAINN.
Younger people are the ones who face the highest risk. Most sexual assault victims are younger than 30 years old. The most vulnerable age group is 18-34, with those being 54% of all sexual assault victims. This means college students and those just out of college are facing the highest risk of being assaulted.
Additionally, males who attend university are five times more likely to be victims of sexual assault than those who are non-students, according to RAINN.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month was started so victims of sexual assault could share their stories, spread awareness to others and educate those who are unaware or don’t have anyone to teach them. SAAM is also used to help build prevention efforts or task forces.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault and/or sexual violence, you can contact the numbers below to report the incident.
National Sexual Assault Hotline: +1 (800) 656-4673
Iowa State University ACCESS Hotline: +1 (800) 203-3488
Sexual assault complaints can be filed with the Title IX Coordinator at 3410 Beardshear Hall or (515) 294-7612. Green Dot Bystander Intervention Training can be requested through Student Wellness. The Equal Opportunity Office also has resources available for immediate help regarding sexual assault.
