Together, we can raise awareness about sexual assault.
During April, we engage in education and dialogue aimed at eradicating sexual violence. It is also a time when we hold space for the survivors and honor our community members who have experienced trauma.
The national theme of Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2024 is Building Connected Communities. This April's campaign aims to mitigate sexual abuse, assault, and harassment by fostering safe and inclusive spaces where people gather, whether in neighborhoods, workplaces, campuses, organizations, or online platforms. Recognizing the power of community, we strive to create environments that promote belonging and accountability, addressing various forms of oppression that contribute to higher rates of sexual violence.
This exhibit aims to challenge the misconception that clothing contributes to sexual assault. It's crucial to understand that victims are never to blame for crimes committed against them. Survivors of rape and sexual assault often face the insensitive question, "What were you wearing?" It's time to end this harmful inquiry. We invite you to explore the narratives and attire of local survivors, demonstrating that clothing holds no relevance in cases of sexual assault. As you delve into these accounts, we urge you to reassess any ingrained beliefs about sexual assault—beliefs that are often myths and stereotypes, ultimately shielding perpetrators from accountability for their actions.
SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Our collection will feature authentic accounts from community members of Sullivan and Orange County. If you wish to contribute your story along with a comprehensive description of the attire you wore, you can anonymously submit it to us for potential inclusion in our exhibit by clicking the link below.
We thank you for entrusting us with your story.
Join us at our 'What Were You Wearing' Exhibit
Mon, April 8th - Thurs, April 11th | SUNY Sullivan
Wear Teal on the Day of Action - Tuesday, April 2nd
Chances are someone in your life is a survivor of sexual harassment, assault, or abuse, even if they have never shared their story with you. Show your support for survivors of sexual harassment and abuse by wearing teal, the color of sexual violence prevention, on the first Tuesday in April, and post a selfie to social media using #SAAM2024. By wearing teal, you signal that you support survivors and are a safe person to talk to.
Wear Denim on Denim Day- Wednesday, April 24th
Wear denim as a visible means of highlighting society's misconceptions surrounding sexual abuse on the last Wednesday in April and to help combat victim blaming and educate others about sexual violence. We also wear denim in solidarity with sexual abuse victims and in remembrance of the 1998 Italian Supreme Court overturning a rape conviction because "the victim wore very, very tight jeans, she had to help him remove them, and by removing the jeans, it was no longer rape but consensual sex."
