Sexual Assault Awareness Month Kickoff

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Cheri Guikema
  • Base Sexual Assault Response Coordinator
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  April is nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the 2007 Department of Defense theme is, "Stand up Against Sexual Assault ... Make a Difference." Unfortunately, sexual assaults are a challenge to our nation and the military.

In 2006, there were 2,947 sexual assaults involving members of the Armed Forces and since the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program was implemented in June 2005, U.S. Air Forces in Europe has had 151 documented cases. Sexual assault hinders our ability to carry out the mission and conflicts with our core values. Although we remain dedicated year-round to its prevention, we spend some extra time within the month of April to focus on education and awareness initiatives.

Throughout the month of April, you will have the opportunity to participate in a wide-range of events. One such event is the base-wide art contest. The contest is open to all and submissions can be in any medium. Deadline for entry is April 9, with prizes being awarded for first through third place. There will also be a 5K Sexual Assault Awareness run April 14, and a free self-defense class at the Community Activities Center April 21. If you enjoy reading or watching movies, stop by the library and check out their displays. They have a wide range of books and videos available, such as "Kids," "The Accused," "The General's Daughter" and "The Color Purple."

April is also a time we honor both victims and survivors of sexual assault. One way we hope to achieve this is through a teal ribbon display at the Consolidated Club. Ribbons can be dedicated by survivors of sexual assault as well as friends and family members. The display emphasizes the fact that each and every community is affected by sexual assault and we all share a responsibility in education and prevention.

Although we remain focused on eliminating sexual assault year-round, April is a great time to get involved in some fun and informative events. If you want more information on any of the scheduled activities, call 1st Lt. Cheri Guikema at 676-7272. It's time for each of us to Stand up Against Sexual Assault ... Make a Difference.