April is Sexual Assault Awareness month and it seems to be that many people perceive it as a month for survivors to share their stories—but it is more than that. It is a month to educate and spread awareness (hence the name) about the topic in hopes of reducing the disheartening statistics and stories that we face today.

According to the National Sexual Violence Resource center, one in five women, as well as one in 71 men will be sexually assaulted or raped in their lifetime. With those numbers in mind, imagine how abundant they truly are. This means throughout an entire school day with four classes, each with about roughly 30 students, that is 24 girls and about two boys who will experience some form of sexual assault.

However, these numbers really only come down to one thing that heavily influences today’s society—rape culture. The term “rape culture” is used heavily in the media, which ultimately decreases its overall impact.

Rape culture stems from the lack of education regarding sex and consent. For a quick rundown, sex is: informed, sober, and consensual. In addition, consent is one thing and one thing only, which is an audible, “yes” when asked for the first time. Anything and everything else is considered rape.

Furthermore, please remember that there are more ramifications that come with rape. It is more than just the event. Survivors endure many life impacts and deserve to live their life that is not defined by what happened to them.

If anyone you, or anyone you know is suffering sexual abuse or assault, please reach out to anyone who can help them.

You can reach the National Sexual Assault Hotline at: 1(800) 656-4673