Sexual Assault (Rape)
Sexual violence is a crime committed to control, degrade and humiliate; it is a crime of opportunity and access. Sexual violence is any sexual act a person is coerced or forced into without consent. It is an invasion of person’s physical and physiological well being. It is an act of power and control expressed through sexual aggression.
Myths and Facts about Sexual Violence
Myth: The victim provokes rape. People who are raped ask for it.
Fact: 60-70% of all rapes are planned before hand. Rape is an act of violence. The victims clothing, behavior or whereabouts do not cause the assault.Myth: Sexual violence occurs only among strangers.
Fact: In approximately 3/4 of all rapes and sexual assaults against women, the offender is known to the victim in some way. Often the rapist is a family member or a close friend.Myth: Rape is an impulsive, uncontrollable act of sexual gratification.
Fact: Rape is a crime of violence or hate. Sex is the weapon used to inflict pain and humiliate the victim. Rapist use sexual violence to take power and control of another person.
If you have recently been a victim of sexual violence:
- Remember you are the victim and not to blame. Seek help.
- Consider reporting the crime. Reporting as soon as possible may preserve evidence.
- Do not wash, douche, or change clothes until you have been examined medically.
- Go to a hospital emergency room for assistance and treatment
- If you decide not to report the attack to law enforcement, you should still protect your health. Consult your health care provider for information about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases
- Get support.
TRUST and ACT on your instincts:
- Know your sexual desires and limits. It is your right to set those limits
- Communicate your limits clearly and in a direct way. If someone starts to offend you in any way, speak up. Assert yourself. Insist on being treated with respect.
- Pay attention to your surroundings. If you can, avoid situations that may put you more at risk.
- Trust your intuition; listen to your feelings. If a situation feels wrong for you, it probably is wrong.
- Anyone can be a rapist.
Always remember
It is not your fault. There is hope. You are not alone. You can heal.
