Talking about "it" raises sexual assault awareness

To The Eagle:

Let's be honest, "it" is not an easy subject to talk about. Most of us are uncomfortable talking about sex. But let's take a moment and get past the blushing, because this conversation is so important.

April is Sexual Assault Prevention Month and this April, communities across Washington are proclaiming "Voices. Actions. Communities." This year's campaign encourages individuals and communities to bring healthy sexuality into the conversation on how we connect with and respect one another in order to prevent sexual violence.

By talking about "it" we are making the connection that promoting healthy behaviors encourages relationships that are consensual, respectful and informed. That is what healthy sexuality is all about. Healthy sexuality is having the knowledge and power to express sexuality in ways that enrich our lives. Healthy sexuality is free from coercion and violence.

It is important to understand that sexuality is much more than sex. Healthy sexuality is emotional, social, cultural and physical. It is our values, attitudes, feelings, interactions and behaviors. It changes with time and experience.

Individuals need accurate information about relationships, sexuality and positive behaviors to ensure the opportunity to make healthy sexual choices. These choices impact our lives, loved ones, communities and society.

All of us have a role in building safe, healthy relationships and communities. When we start the conversation about healthy sexuality, we raise awareness. Help prevent sexual violence by talking about "it."

During the month of April, you will be able to participate in events that will help bring awareness to sexual assault within our community.

The Charlotte House and St. James Family Center will be hosting a number of events. Starting April 1, there are teal ribbons for you to wear in support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The ribbons will be available at St. James Family Center, The Bank of the Pacific, and Cathlamet Chevron. We also have yard signs available for community members that would like to display one in their yard. Please call The Charlotte House at 795-6400 or St. James Family Center at 795-8612 if you would like one placed in your yard during the month of April. On April 3, the Wahkiakum County Commissioners signed a proclamation, proclaiming Wahkiakum County's support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. On April 16, the Mayor will also be signing a proclamation on behalf of the Town of Cathlamet. April 25 is Denim Day. We are encouraging everyone to wear denim on this day to bring awareness to a rape case that was overturned because the judge felt that the victim's jeans were too tight for the rapist to get off on his own, so the victim must have helped him. This day is to remind the community that it is never the victim's fault.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault, please call The Charlotte House at 795-6400 for assistance.

We would like to thank the community for their wonderful support of St. James Family Center and The Charlotte House and all that we do. We are incredibly grateful for this wonderful community.

Renae Hauff

Sexual Assault Prevention/Outreach/Education Advocate

The Charlotte House