Sandy Parker, RCC Director of Services
The #MeToo movement has catapulted sexual assault awareness as a broad public health issue, reshaping the way we think in workplaces, schools and college campuses, healthcare facilities, legislation, and even in our personal lives. Changing our language to portray sexual violence accurately and communicating in a way that does not place blame on victims has become a crucial aspect in our interactions with others. Consent in relationships and believing those who disclose their personal experiences are important steps in turning what we’ve learned from the #MeToo movement into necessary change. The #MeToo movement brought awareness, but it is now time to put that knowledge to good use!
This April we celebrate the 19th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month with the theme “I Ask,” promoting consent, safe space, and open communication. Consent is a normal and necessary part of sex and should include a respectful conversation with your partner. Rape Crisis Center of Medina and Summit Counties strives to raise awareness of sexual assault and create a culture of consent in the community. This year’s efforts during sexual assault awareness month are somewhat curtailed due to public precautions for COVID19. Some large group events are being rescheduled, but we will support the “I Ask” theme through social media, conversation, and community response. Let’s work hard during the month of April to create healthy and safe communities, and extend those efforts all year round!
