April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Every 107 seconds another American is sexually assaulted. The U.S. Department of Justice’s National Crime Victimization survey confirms there’s an average of 293,066 victims, ages twelve or older who are either raped or sexually assaulted each year. A survey indicates that 1 in 5 women in the United States say they have been sexually assaulted.

We can help prevent people from getting involved in this position. Joyful Heart Foundation is giving tips on how to help prevent it from happening. You can do so much to help. Start by reaching out to a loved one, let them know that you care. Make your voice heard, help improve the criminal justice system.”Join the Speak4RAINN15 campaign; you can help survivors by sharing about the anniversary of “Speak” a book by Laurie Halse Anderson.”

Nebraska was the first state to abolish the marital rape exemption. The law states that you must be sixteen and older in order to have sexual interaction with someone for it to not be considered a crime. Sexual assault is the most under-reported crime in the United States.

UNL is having an “End Rape On Campus” event on April 20, in honor of sexual assault awareness month. This event will include activities such as poetry slam, book signing, speeches, and a march to the Nebraska State Capitol building. Activities will begin at 2pm. It will be located at the Nebraska Union Plaza.

Nobody should ever go through such a crisis. Voices Of Hope is a program that helps raise awareness about sexual assault. It provides a 24 hour crisis line (402-475-7273). Voices Of Hope will be hosting an event on April 23. They will be giving out wristbands, stamps, and information about sexual assault. The theme of the event is “Got Consent?”