Syracuse Sun

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is a significant event hosted in April nationwide, aiming to raise awareness about and support those impacted by sexual and relationship violence. According to Kayla Turner ’24, a member of the Sexual Assault Awareness Month Committee at Syracuse University, "For a campus as large and dynamic as Syracuse University, it is imperative for students to have and access spaces where survivorship is honored and healing in community is fostered."

The theme of this year's SAAM is "Building Connected Communities," which is reflected in the various empowering, engaging, and educational programs and events scheduled throughout the month. Leslie Skeffington, Barnes Center at The Arch assistant director of sexual and relationship violence prevention and chair of the Sexual Assault Awareness Month Committee, stated, "SAAM has historically strived to break the cycle of silence and stigma surrounding sexual violence and encourage a dialogue about prevention efforts." She added that this year, the focus is on creating spaces that promote healing and empowerment for survivors and their allies.

Events lined up for Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2024 at Syracuse University include yoga sessions, friendship bracelet crafting, art therapy, and a trauma-informed self-defense class. The aim is to provide opportunities for healing and empowerment in a supportive community environment.

One of the key events during SAAM is Take Back The Night (TBTN), which is a global initiative bringing communities together to speak out against sexual violence and interpersonal violence. Virginia Evans, Barnes Center at The Arch Sexual and Relationship Violence Response Team coordinator, emphasized the importance of TBTN at Syracuse University, stating, "Take Back The Night has always been an event that celebrates the dignity and resilience of survivors while sharing and teaching our community about the impact of sexual and relationship violence."

Participants and allies are encouraged to engage in SAAM events and activities, including signing the Take Back The Night Pledge throughout April, attending the Take Back The Night event on April 10, and participating in the #IWillTBTN Stars Campaign Display Kit.

The events and programs scheduled for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Take Back The Night aim to create a supportive and empowering community for survivors and allies, fostering healing and promoting awareness around sexual and relationship violence.