Sexual Assault Awareness Month: It’s Time to Get Loud, Not Just Wear a Ribbon
Content note: This piece discusses sexual assault, trauma, and survivor support.
Need help right now? Contact the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline — 800-656-HOPE (4673) — or chat online 24/7. If you’re in immediate danger, call your local emergency number.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), and if that makes you feel uncomfortable—good. This isn’t supposed to be easy. It’s supposed to be real.
Sexual assault isn’t just a “sensitive topic.” It’s a widespread epidemic that leaves people mentally, emotionally, and physically scarred—often for life. It happens in families, on campuses, in the workplace, in the military, in relationships. And the sad truth? Most survivors know their abuser. Let that sink in.
We wear teal this month not for decoration, but for disruption—to force conversations that society constantly tries to bury. If you’re not talking about it, you’re part of the silence that protects perpetrators and isolates survivors.
The Ugly Truth: Sexual Assault by the Numbers
Let’s get uncomfortable with some facts, shall we?
- Sexual violence is common. Studies show staggering lifetime prevalence for women and men; rates are even higher for LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and communities of color.
- Most survivors know their assailant. We’re not talking about strangers in dark alleys—we’re talking about friends, family members, dates, coworkers.
- Reporting rates are painfully low. Fear, shame, retaliation, being disbelieved or blamed—systems fail survivors more often than they protect them.
So no, it’s not a “bad hookup.” It’s not a “miscommunication.” It’s violence. And it’s time we stop letting polite society water that down.
Why Support Is More Than a Hashtag
Supporting survivors doesn’t mean slapping up an Instagram graphic or tweeting a hashtag once a year. It means doing the work. Support isn’t complicated—but it does require empathy and effort.
Real support looks like:
- Listening without judgment. Not everything needs your opinion. Sometimes people just need to be heard.
- Believing survivors. Don’t play devil’s advocate. Survivors already second-guess themselves enough.
- Respecting their timeline. Don’t push someone to report. It’s their trauma, not your PR campaign.
- Offering resources, not advice. “Just move on” is garbage. Offer links, support groups, and space.
Most importantly, let them define their own healing. Your idea of closure might not be theirs. Stop centering yourself.
The Power of the Teal Ribbon
The teal ribbon isn’t a pastel accessory. It’s a bold stand in a world that constantly silences survivors. When you wear it, you aren’t just showing support—you’re refusing to look away.
It says: I believe you. I see you. I will not be silent. And in a world where survivors are shamed, ignored, or gaslit, that visible solidarity can be the first time someone feels seen.
The Reality Survivors Face—Every Day
- Navigating relationships while healing from trauma
- Living with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and hypervigilance
- Being re-traumatized by court systems, unsupportive families, or clueless coworkers
- Feeling invisible when their stories aren’t “dramatic enough” to be believed
Every single day is work for a survivor. Showing up for them shouldn’t be once a year—it should be constant.
Take Action That Actually Matters
1) Share real information
- Post credible statistics and explain survivor rights.
- Challenge myths (“False accusations are rare—stop pretending otherwise”).
2) Host or attend awareness events
- Partner with schools, workplaces, or local orgs to promote prevention and consent education.
- Create safe spaces for survivors to share their truth—only if they want to.
3) Donate with purpose
- Survivors need therapy, legal help, medical care, and housing.
- Give to organizations that help them get their lives back (see resources below).
4) Wear teal with intention
- It’s not about fashion—it’s about being seen standing with survivors.
- Use it to start conversations that matter—even when they’re uncomfortable.
Organizations Actually Helping Survivors
We aren’t affiliated with these orgs, but we respect their work. If you need support or want to learn more:
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) — Largest anti-sexual violence organization in the U.S.; 24/7 hotline, online chat, resources, referrals.
- NSVRC (National Sexual Violence Resource Center) — Research-backed prevention, training, and national resource hub; find local help.
- End Rape On Campus (EROC) — Survivor support, campus advocacy, and policy reform.
- FORGE — Resources and support for transgender and nonbinary survivors; provider training and technical assistance.
Teal Ribbon Gear That Speaks Louder Than Words
Your outfit can’t stop assault—but it can show whose side you’re on. Our Sexual Assault Awareness Collection is designed to spark conversations, honor survivors, and keep awareness visible all year.
- Teal Ribbon Enamel Pin: A simple, powerful “I stand with survivors.”
- Teal Glitter Ribbon Pin: A little sparkle, a whole lot of strength.
- Teal Survivor Ribbon Pin: For those who’ve endured—and refuse to be silenced.
These aren’t performative. They’re purposeful. Visibility matters—and so does putting money back into the fight.
This Is Bigger Than April
If you made it here, good. Now do something with it.
Don’t just read. Don’t just nod. Take the uncomfortable truths and use them. Support survivors loudly, consistently, and unapologetically. Wear the ribbon. Fund the fight. Be the kind of ally that survivors don’t have to explain themselves to.
Because silence isn’t neutral. It’s dangerous.
Frequently Asked Questions (SAAM)
What is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM)?
SAAM happens every April to raise awareness, support survivors, and push for prevention and accountability. It’s not a trend—it’s a call to action.
What color represents sexual assault awareness?
Teal is the color for sexual assault awareness. Wear it to spark conversations and show visible solidarity with survivors.
How can I support a survivor in my life?
Believe them, listen without judgment, respect their timeline, and offer credible resources like RAINN or NSVRC’s Find Help. Don’t pressure them to report.
What should I do if I’ve been assaulted?
You deserve support. Call 800-656-HOPE (4673) or chat with RAINN 24/7 for confidential help and options. If you choose, consider seeking medical care and preserving evidence—on your terms.
How do I talk about this with kids or teens?
Age-appropriate conversations about consent, boundaries, and respect matter. Schools and families can use evidence-based resources from NSVRC and EROC.