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The Advocate

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Sexual Violence: What Everyone Should Know. . .

SEXUAL VIOLENCE CAN BE:

• Rape or sexual assault
• Unwanted fondling or touching
• Molestation
• Sexual harassment
• Indecent exposure
• It can happen to anyone at any age.

DO YOU CALL IT RAPE?
In Vermont, sexual assault is a forced sexual act with another person. “Forced” can mean without their consent, by threatening them, threatening to harm another, or by coercion. If someone is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or is otherwise mentally or physically incapable of consent - it’s sexual assault. Acquaintances, dates, husbands, and family members commit over 80% of sexual assaults - NOT strangers.

Rape does not have to be physically violent. If anyone forces you, in any way, to have sexual contact - it’s rape.

• What to do if you have been sexually assaulted
  
• How to help a friend who has been sexually assaulted
  
• Reading list
• Teens and violence in dating
• What can you do to protect yourself?

COULD THIS HAPPEN TO ME?

• 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 7 boys will experience sexual violence BEFORE age 18.
• In one study, 34% of men whose actions fell under the legal definition of rape believed they had not committed rape.
• In Vermont in 2001, 189 forcible rapes were reported to police, while Vermont’s rape crisis programs worked with 948 rape victims.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE
WomenSafe can help 24 hours a day.

• Information and Referral Services
  24-Hour Confidential Hotline (388-4205 or 800-388-4205)- For survivors, their families and those who care about them. We can provide information and referrals regarding emotional, medical and legal issues surrounding sexual violence. We are also here to listen.
  
• In-Person Support
  Advocates are available to meet in-person to provide support and information. Support groups are also available.
• Outreach Education
  We provide various presentations about the issues involved with sexual violence. We can tailor our presentation to fit your needs.
• Advocacy Services
  Medical - We can accompany you to the hospital for a test or medical exam after an assault. We can help connect you with nurses specially trained to deal with sexual assault.
  Police - If you wish to report a sexual assault to the police, we can support you during this process.
  Legal - We can provide support during court proceedings and help clarify the process.