This article discusses sexual violence and may be triggering for some readers. The Kingston Sexual Assault Centre’s 24-hour crisis and phone line can be reached at 613-544-6424 / 1-800-544-6424. For on campus , community may email bjl7@queensu.ca.
April is here and I can’t help but sense the familiar buzz of excitement signalling the end of another semester at Queen’s. Around campus, emotions run high—from the eager anticipation of summer break to the heartfelt farewells exchanged between friends and soon-to-be graduates. With classes winding down and the beacon of warmer days ahead, there’s an unmistakable feeling of relief and freedom in the air.
However, amid the frenzy of exam preparations, it’s imperative to take a moment and recognize another significant occurrence that unfolds on campuses during April: Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM).
Since the formal establishment of SAAM in 2001, April has served as a rallying cry for communities to unite and raise awareness about sexual violence and advocate for prevention measures. For those in university towns, where young adults are faced with newfound independence as they navigate complex social dynamics, the importance of raising awareness about sexual violence can’t be overstated.
SAAM is a time for universities, their governing bodies, and community to reflect on their policies, strategies, and educational initiatives aimed at combatting sexual violence. University campuses act as microcosms of society, inevitably reflecting social dynamics and relationships.
Unfortunately, sexual assault remains a prevalent issue in these settings, with research indicating young adults aged 18-24 are at a heightened risk of experiencing sexual violence. According to statistics from the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), post-secondary aged women between 18-24 are three times more likely to experience sexual violence than the average woman.
Considering these sobering statistics, SAAM serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to address sexual violence on Queen’s campus.
Amid a petri-dish culture characterized by partying, hookup dynamics, and toxic masculinity, students at Queen’s are all too familiar with the prevalence of sexual violence. From physical assault to verbal harassment, from coercion to exploitation, sexual violence encomes a wide range of behaviours that violate an individual’s autonomy and dignity.
With University District, the presence of sexual violence permeates the Queen’s community.
Importantly, sexual violence knows no boundaries of gender, age, sexuality, race, or socioeconomic status, leaving anyone vulnerable to its impact.
This month, and beyond, it’s crucial to debunk the harmful myths surrounding sexual violence.
Microforms of sexual violence pervade everyday interactions, contributing to the normalization and tolerance towards more overt forms of assault. Damaging misconceptions insinuate victims are somehow responsible for their assault, blaming them based on behaviour, level of intoxication, or the length of their skirt. These misconceptions contribute to a culture of victim-blaming, creating barriers for victims to report and seek , further exacerbating the trauma survivors endure.
Whether among friends, in classrooms, or online, it’s crucial to have conversations about sexual violence. Dialogue surrounding sexual violence is a catalyst for awareness, prevention, and . Open discussions have the power to dismantle harmful misconceptions, challenge societal attitudes that perpetuate victim-blaming, and promote a culture of consent and respect. Discussing sexual violence further raises awareness about available resources and services—some of Kingston’s own include Walkhome, the Sexual Assault Centre Kingston, and the Kingston Anti-Violence Advisory Council—ensuring survivors receive the assistance and validation they deserve.
As April unfolds, we have a responsibility to actively participate in SAAM. It’s a time for reflection, action, and solidarity with survivors. By prioritizing education, , and prevention efforts, universities like Queen’s can create safer environments where all students can thrive without the fear of sexual violence.
Together, we can work towards a future where every individual is respected, valued, and free from harm—not only for April but at all times of year, and on all university campuses.
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