CLEWISTON -- April 2021 marks the official 20th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), an annual, national campaign to raise public awareness about sexual violence, and educate communities and individuals on how to prevent it.

The term "sexual violence" is an umbrella term, covering lots of different types of sexual assault, harassment, and other forms of violence.

This year’s SAAM theme is "We Can Build Safe Online Spaces", as sexual harassment, assault, and abuse can happen anywhere, including online.

Supporters of this campaign are encouraged to wear teal — the color designated to sexual violence prevention. Teal is said to symbolize trust, devotion, and healing. Many people have changed their social media profile pictures to teal to show their support. 

Locally, Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc. (ACT) has encouraged all members of the community to show their support for survivors of sexual assault, and for prevention with a Wear Teal Campaign this month. The Clewiston Police Department teamed up with ACT, to highlight Sexual Assault Awareness Month, by wearing teal ribbons on their uniforms.

To learn more about SAAM and what you can do to help, visit Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Inc. online: http://www.actabuse.com/sexual-assault/

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, help is available. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country.

Call the hotline 24/7 if you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault: 800-656-4673