THE MONTH OF OCTOBER represents Sexual Violence Awareness month with locals sending an important message to all. It reminds our community that we all have a part in ending sexual violence.

Sexual Violence impacts many however, it should be noted when this pandemic began with the result of the COVID-19 pandemic, globally we have experienced several issues regarding sexual assault. The need for our community to acknowledge those survivors and know that there is always support and help available.

Everyone in our community has the right to feel safe from sexual violence. Sexual Violence Awareness Month is held annually in October to raise awareness and promote support throughout Queensland. This means we can shift this to all interested to our community. Without education and support, the future cannot change.

The perpetrator is often known to the person being assaulted. Perpetrators use tactics such as verbal persuasion, threats, physical violence and victim alcohol and substance use. A victim of sexual assault is never at fault. Sexual violence is commonly not date or known to the victim. Myths around ideas such as the person asked for it are not factual. Nobody asks to be sexually violated. It doesn’t matter what the victim said, did, or wore. It doesn’t matter if the victim was drinking or had said yes and changed their mind. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. It’s never okay to force a person to do something they don’t want to do. It’s never okay to ignore someone’s no. Everyone has the right to say no, push back or run away. We are all individuals and have our differences. It is about giving the survivor the right to feel safe and report the violation. Those impacted by sexual violence are always survivors. They are not at fault. They have the right to be treated with dignity, respect and wellbeing. This includes their relationships, families, communities and support services.

As part of the state-wide campaign, Sexual Violence Awareness Month hosts local community marches. The first “Reclaim the Night” march began in Sydney and Perth in 1978 and continues to spread across Queensland. Members of the community march with thoughtful messages that everyone is entitled to feel safe and be supported. Survivors hold ribbons that are symbolised in red for the survivors as they share where the violence has impacted their lives. Survivors continue to have their voices heard. Survivors have the right to speak and feel wholeheartedly supported without fear of sexual violence in our community.

You can call the following lines:

> Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 between 7.30am and 11.30pm, 7 days a week or by visiting the website: www.dvconnect.org

> Lifeline on 13 11 14: A 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention organisation or visit them online at www.lifeline.org.au.

> 1800 Respect on 1800 737 732: 24/7 telephone and online crisis support for anyone affected by sexual assault, domestic or family violence.

As a community let us all do our part in raising awareness this October and stand in support for Sexual Violence Month.

Help raise awareness to support the rights of all survivors. Every individual has the right to be heard and has the right to life.

Roborn the Rose