By Breckan Erdman Winters, NRCDV Program Specialist

Despite the fear, despair, paranoia and uncertainty our communities are experiencing, there is also an abundance of connectedness, support, courage, hope and gratitude.” – Arlene Vassell, Redefining WE: Building Beloved Communities

hands holding cell phonesAs the COVID-19 pandemic highlights existing social inequities and amplifies isolation and safety concerns for many survivors, it remains critically important for those of us working to end gender-based violence in all of its forms to root our efforts in the values of community care, health equity, and racial justice. Throughout the month of April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) offers us an opportunity to work toward building beloved community. Now more than ever, activities that foster relationship building and connectedness while maintaining a safe physical distance play a key role in our work to build safe and healthy communities for all. There are many creative ways to engage communities and foster online activism for SAAM throughout the month of April, such as:

For more ideas for engaging your community for SAAM, check out NSVRC’s Get Engaged Online in Sexual Assault Awareness Month page and download shareable social media graphics, a media outreach guide, and more from the Sexual Assault Awareness Month resources page.

What #1Thing will you do to engage your community for #SAAM2020?