April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a dedicated time to raise public awareness nationwide about sexual assault and educate communities and individuals on how to prevent sexual violence. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, nearly one in two women and one in four men reported unwanted sexual contact at some point in their lives.

We asked Marsha Brewington, Title IX deputy coordinator at Baylor College of Medicine, more about this topic and how people can help end it.

Question: How is sexual assault defined?

Answer: Sexual assault, or sexual violence, is any physical, sexual intercourse or attempted sexual intercourse engaged without the consent of the other person, or when the other person is unable to consent to the activity.

Q: How does it differ from sexual harassment?

A: Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advances, including requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.

Q: What are some ways that people can help others?

A: One way to help is by being an active bystander. An active bystander is someone who intervenes in a potentially harmful situation. Here are some simple steps to becoming an active bystander:

• Notice the situation and trust your instincts. If a situation or person doesn’t seem “right” to you, trust your gut.
• Tell another person. Being with others is a good idea to help you engage in the situation and maintain your safety.
• Diffuse situations. If you see a person coming on too strong to someone who may be too drunk to make a consensual decision, interrupt, distract or redirect the situation. If you are too embarrassed or shy to speak out, get someone else to step in.
• Ask the person you are worried about if he / she is okay. If necessary, provide options for leaving the situation.
• Call the police (911).

Q: How is Baylor working to spread awareness about this issue?

A: Baylor is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all community members, guests and visitors. Our office hosts training sessions and shares educational information to help the Baylor community understand and identify sexual harassment and sexual violence, as well as provide reporting and assistance options and share ways how you can support someone affected by sexual harassment or sexual violence.

By Anna Kiappes