SEXUAL VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

OCTOBER 2020

In Queensland, October is Sexual Violence Awareness Month (SVAM). The goal of SVAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it.

We know that one month isn’t enough to solve the serious and widespread issue of sexual violence. However, the attention October generates is an opportunity to energise and expand prevention efforts throughout the year.

Sexual Violence Awareness Month is about more than awareness — our ultimate goal is prevention.

 

 

This year's theme is START BY BELIEVING. The “Start By Believing” campaign is an opportunity to amplify the conversations in our community about how we as individuals, families, organisations, and government can respond to a disclosure of sexual violence. Violence thrives where there is silence so speaking out can be one of the most powerful things a person does and the response they get can shape their healing journey.

This year also marks the 30th Anniversary of our service. From humble beginnings in a rented office to a purpose built building housing 14 staff and helping thousands of clients every year, so many people have been part of this amazing journey. 

To launch Sexual Violence Awareness Month we are hosting an event with a difference on the 1st October at 9.30am. While our annual Community Breakfast isn't possible we will still be marking the day with an online event with special guest Clementine Ford speaking out about Affirmative Consent. 

Every Thursday in October we are going to be hosting a Speak Out Session (through Facebook) on a range of topics relating to sexual violence. Having Clementine launch not only the month but these weekly discussions is a great way to get the conversation started and what better thing to talk about than Affirmative Consent! 

What events and activities is GCCASV hosting for SVAM 2020:

  • Online Launch with special guest Clementine Ford
  • Speak Out Sessions every Thursday @12.30 in October.These free online mini-trainings will explore the intersections of sexual violence
  • Survivor Speak Out and Candle lighting -22nd October @10am Livestreamed through Facebook
  • Social Media Campaign on Instagram and Facebook
  • Instagram Trivia Night (keep an eye on our stories)
  • Facebook Scavenger Hunt
  • SVAM Raffle & Fundraiser

Learn More and Get Involved:

  • Start By Believing when someone discloses an experience of sexual assault
  • Wear teal throughout October, the colour of sexual assault violence awareness and prevention
  • Are you on Instagram? Share all the creative ways you ask for consent using the hashtag #affirmativeconsent and show your support for victim-survivors with the hashtag #startbybelievingaustralia
  • Visit our Instagram stories for facts, stats, and feminist ideas throughout the month

Get Support or Report an assault: