What if there was a way to end sexual violence? Would you be willing to help?
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to bring attention to a significant issue that affects our neighbors, friends, and family, our schools, our businesses, and our lives. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, thinking that, as an individual, you can’t affect any meaningful change.
This is where the DOVES Program is asking you to embrace courage and take the following small steps that, when combined with our efforts and the efforts of all those who live in our Nebraskan Panhandle, can end sexual violence.
1. Personal level: What is one thing you can do in your personal life that addresses sexual violence? Ideas include:
a. Practice consent in your relationships; for instance, ask for hugs instead of just taking them.
b. Learn something new about healthy relationships, sexual health, or boundaries.
c. Help the kids in your life practice setting boundaries.
2. Community level: What can you do in your neighborhood or town that addresses sexual violence? Ideas include:
a. Speak up for survivors in your community.
b. Support local social service programs through donations and volunteering.
c. Demand accountability for perpetrators of sexual violence.
3. Statewide/Nationwide level: What can you do to create statewide or national change? Ideas include:
a. Advocate for policy reforms that support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
b. Participate in national awareness campaigns.
c. Call your representatives in Congress to urge them to support initiatives that support survivors.
It’s important to remember that change can happen when we work together. Join the DOVES Program in embracing courage. Stand up against sexual violence. Together, we can make a difference. If you or someone you know is experiencing or has been affected by these issues, please reach out to the DOVES Program. 24-hour Help Line: 866-95-DOVES, 24-hour Text Line: 515-599-6620, and website at DOVESProgram.com.
About the DOVES Program
The DOVES Program was founded in 1979 and provides safe, confidential services to survivors of sexual, domestic and dating violence, stalking and human trafficking throughout nine counties in the Panhandle of Nebraska. DOVES’ mission is to ensure our empowerment-based and strengths-centered services are available and accessible to anyone who has experienced or been affected by sexual, domestic, or dating violence.