Sexual Violence Prevention Month is recognized in Canada during the month of May as a time to raise awareness about sexual violence, promote safety in our communities, and challenge the many misunderstandings that continue to exist around sexual violence. This month focuses on support and dignity for survivors, which includes education, accountability, and respectful dialogue in how we approach this topic.
When discussing sexual violence, it is important to remember that victims of this crime can be “anyone”. There is no set identity for who can experience sexual violence, just as there is no “right” or “wrong” way for survivors to move on or overcome their experiences. Creating the expectation that a victim of sexual violence should have certain characteristics or behaviours can silence and add to the suffering of the victims of sexual violence who do not meet those expectations.
