ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
In solidarity with leaders across the nation, 316th Wing Commander Col. Steven M. Shepro has declared April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month for Andrews.
The commander's proclamation recognizes that sexual violence "continues at an alarming rate," emphasizes the need to foster greater public awareness of the causes and effects of sexual violence, and addresses the problem on every civic level.
"My Strength is for Defending," is the Department of Defense theme for Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2009. It is intended to highlight the fact that our mission not only involves national defense, but the defense and safety of the Americans who voluntarily risk their lives in our defense.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month was established to bring to light the prevalence of sexual violence in society, to recognize and support victims, to recommit to holding offenders accountable, and to acknowledge that every individual plays a role in ending sexual violence," said Santiago Velázquez, Andrew's Sexual Assault Response Coordinator.
"There are simple ways each of us can take a stand against sexual violence on a daily basis," Mr. Velazquez said. "We set a powerful example every time we talk to our kids about the importance of respect and equality in relationships, when we speak up if someone makes a degrading comment, and when we demonstrate support for survivors of sexual violence. By educating ourselves and talking with others, we can challenge our communities to reject sexual violence."
The 316 WG has several events scheduled for Sexual Assault Awareness Month including:
· The Gate SAAM Campaign: Sexual Assault awareness material will be distributed at the gates Monday.
· SAAM Jeans Day: Civilian employees can wear Jeans to work April 17.
· SAAM's "My Strength is for Defending" 5K run is scheduled for April 24. The first 400 registered participants will receive a commemorative gift.
Every servicemember, of any rank, must understand his or her duty to safely intervene and prevent the crime of sexual assault and identify behaviors that may lead to sexual assault.
Sexual assault degrades mission readiness and is fundamentally at odds with the responsibility of the men and women in uniform to treat all people with dignity and respect. This message emphasizes the power individuals have to transform their communities into places where respect is the norm, and where choosing to sexually assault another person is never acceptable.
The DoD remains committed to eliminating sexual assault from military service by sustaining a robust sexual assault prevention and response policy; by identifying and eliminating barriers to reporting; by ensuring that care remains available and accessible; and by providing continuous, relevant, effective training and education to all servicemembers.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is recognized nationally and is symbolized through a teal ribbon. To learn more or to get involved, contact Mr. Velázquez at 301-981-7272.
(Courtesy of the Sexual Assault Response Office).