Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan recognizes Sexual Violence Awareness Week
Giving a Voice, Making a Change, Shining a LightMay 15 to 20 is Sexual Violence Awareness Week in Saskatchewan
Each May, Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS), its member agencies, community partners and the Government of Saskatchewan recognize Sexual Violence Awareness Week (SVAW) to raise awareness of issues relating to sexual violence in Saskatchewan.
“Every year, we use Sexual Violence Awareness Week to create awareness and change attitudes and beliefs about sexual violence,” said Kerrie Isaac, executive director at SASS. “Saskatchewan has a serious problem when it comes to sexual violence – it’s a pervasive issue that impacts many people in our province every day.”
Saskatchewan has one of the highest rates of sexualized violence in Canada – double the national average. Here, one in three women and one in six men will experience sexual violence before the age of 18. This rate is disproportionately higher for young (ages 13-24), marginalized people including Indigenous women/girls, 2SLGBTQIAA+ and racialized individuals, as well as those living with disabilities; however, sexual assault can happen to any person, at any age, at any time; and it happens every single day. SASS has taken on a leadership role to develop and advance an inclusive and collaborative approach to addressing sexual violence in Saskatchewan.
“Due to the prevalence of sexual violence in our province, it is imperative we provide the public with education and awareness on the ways they can help survivors and on how survivors can safely report and seek help,” said Isaac. “Together we will be able to work towards a healthier and safer Saskatchewan for everyone.”
This year, SASS is examining how we can create safer communities free from sexual violence. The week is guided by our theme, The Power of Collaboration: Creating Safe Communities.
Join us this week for two free online events, sponsored by Department of Justice Canada:
Indigenous Perspectives on Interprofessional Collaboration
Keynote Speaker – Treaty Commissioner of Saskatchewan, Mary Culbertson, J.D.
Treaty Commissioner of Saskatchewan Mary Culbertson will discuss interprofessional collaboration that takes into account Indigenous perspectives and colonial histories while promoting equitable partnerships and advancing the well-being of Indigenous communities.
Tuesday, May 16, 2023
Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Location: Virtual on Zoom
The Power of Collaboration: Creating Safer Communities.
Our expert panelists Todd Rennebohm, Emmanuel Flores-Abed and Lorie Harrison will explore male experiences with sexual violence & mental health challenges, and the impact of societal norms on men’s ability to be vulnerable.
Thursday, May 18, 2023
Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Location: Virtual on Zoom
To learn more about SVAW, visit sassk.ca/SVAW. Follow @sass.sask on Instagram and Facebook to learn more about how you can help create safer communities and support the fight against sexual violence in Saskatchewan.