Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is an annual international observance occurring each April.

Its goals are to raise public awareness about sexual assault and to educate communities as well as individuals on how to prevent sexual violence.

SAAM is recognized by state, national and community-based organizations, government agencies, businesses and other entities as a public health, human rights and social justice issue. Events and activities during the month of April help to reinforce the need for prevention efforts.

Denim Day takes place on the last Wednesday of April. This day of action and awareness encourages people to wear denim as a statement against victim blaming; it was created following a high-profile Italian rape trial where the survivor was blamed for her rape because of the type of jeans she was wearing. In protest and solidarity, individuals are encouraged to wear denim to combat the idea that rape and sexual violence are the fault or responsibility of survivors.

SAAM and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs

As it shares on its website, the VA works to raise awareness of its resources for survivors of military sexual trauma (MST), which refers to sexual assault or harassment that occurred during military service. The VA offers assistance to survivors on their many paths to healing, no matter how long it takes or how long it’s been since the occurrence.

Explore VA’s MST-related resources here. Learn more about SAAM and the VA here.

You can help spread the word about SAAM and MST in your community:

• FAQ: Use this resource when speaking with colleagues or MST survivors. Questions focus on how MST is defined, relevant statistics and resources for helping MST survivors heal.
• Beyond MST: This free, secure self-help app was created specifically to support the health and well-being of MST survivors. You don’t have to be in treatment to use this app, and any personal information entered is not shared with anyone, including VA staff.