This resolution supports the goals and ideals of National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, emphasizing education, prevention, survivor support, and prosecution of perpetrators.
Charles "Chuck" Grassley
Senator
IA
This resolution recognizes April 2025 as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, reaffirming the Senate's commitment to preventing sexual violence, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable. It highlights the prevalence and impact of sexual assault, referencing statistics on its widespread occurrence and the challenges faced by survivors, while also acknowledging the critical role of various organizations and professionals in addressing this issue. The resolution encourages education, prevention, improved treatment, and increased prosecution to combat sexual violence.
Senate Designates April 2025 for Sexual Assault Awareness, Spotlighting Prevention and Survivor Needs
The Senate has passed a resolution officially recognizing April 2025 as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Think of this resolution as a formal nod from the Senate, aiming to shine a spotlight on the widespread issue of sexual violence and rally support for preventing it, helping survivors heal, and holding perpetrators accountable.
Understanding the Scope
The resolution doesn't just offer recognition; it backs it up by citing some sobering statistics to paint a picture of the problem. It references data points like Centers for Disease Control and Prevention findings that nearly 2 in 5 women and 1 in 4 men face some form of sexual or physical violence or stalking by a partner. It also touches on the impact on children, citing hundreds of thousands of abuse and neglect cases, and notes high rates of early experiences with attempted rape. The resolution acknowledges the unique challenges faced by survivors of color and the particularly high rates within American Indian and Alaska Native communities, as well as within the Armed Forces, where estimates suggest tens of thousands experienced sexual assault recently. It also lists the heavy toll—from PTSD and depression to significant economic costs, estimated in the trillions nationally.
What a Resolution Really Does
While this resolution doesn't create new laws or allocate funding itself, it serves as an important public statement. It officially acknowledges the gravity of sexual violence and expresses Senate support for the organizations and professionals working on the front lines—like national coalitions, local rape crisis centers (many facing increased demand and staffing shortages, as the resolution notes), and culturally specific groups. It highlights resources like the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-HOPE) and the DoD Safe Helpline (877-995-5247). Essentially, it's about raising public consciousness, validating the experiences of survivors, and encouraging continued efforts in prevention, support, and justice.