A Latina mother and daughter stand outside and are smiling and laughing while they embrace with text that says ‘Preventing sexual violence is possible. Embrace awkward. Talk About It. #SAAM2023 #TalkAboutIt’ includes SCCADVASA logo

March 27, 2023 (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – The South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA), South Carolina’s leading voice for the prevention of sexual and domestic violence, launches the “Talk About It” campaign during Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) 2023. 

SAAM takes place during the month of April to increase public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how it can be prevented. Building on our 2022 “Don’t Stand By” campaign and our 2023 #LevelUpForChange Prevention Digital Campaign, this campaign encourages parents, partners, and teens to step outside of their comfort zones and begin a conversation about healthy relationships, boundaries, consent, and sex.  

South Carolina will also amplify this year’s NSVRC Theme: “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity” which calls on all individuals, communities, organizations, and institutions to change ourselves and the systems surrounding us to build racial equity and respect as essential foundations for prevention work. 

“Although it can feel awkward,we must consistently speak to our children about boundaries, consent, and sex in order to best prepare them for safe and fulfilling lives as adults.” said Sara Barber, SCCADVASA Executive Director. “We must start these conversations early and keep lines of communication open as our kids mature.” 

As we begin Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we encourage individuals and communities to show support for survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence during the entire month of April by doing any of the following:

  1. Participate in our “Talk About It” campaign. A toolkit can be found on our website.
  2. Follow SCCADVASA’s social media channels (@sccadvasa on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) and help amplify our message of support for survivors.
  3. Tuesday, April 4th is SAAM Day of Action, wear teal clothing and take a selfie. Share it on all your social media accounts with #SAAM2023 #TalkAboutIt.
  4. Participate in NSVRC’s #30DaysofSAAM Challenge.
  5. Participate in Denim Day on Wednesday, April 26th by wearing denim and share it to social media to take a stand against victim-blaming.
  6. Visit www.levelupforchange.org to learn how to prevent sexual violence among teens and NSVRC.org for additional prevention resources. 

To learn more about SCCADVASA and ways to support survivors visit www.sccadvasa.org. 

About SCCADVASA:

The South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA) serves as the collective voice promoting the prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault in South Carolina. Our vision is a South Carolina free from domestic violence and sexual assault. Our statewide coalition is made up of the 22 sexual assault and domestic violence direct service and advocacy programs in South Carolina and other allied organizations. Since 1981, SCCADVASA has been a leader in representing the critical needs of survivors and their families. Our dedicated staff advance our work through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Learn more at www.sccadvasa.org.  

###

Back to News & Updates