Every April, BARCC and other advocates work together to spread the word about what sexual violence is, its causes, how it impacts individuals and communities, and how we can all work together to prevent it.
Building Connected Communities
Ending sexual violence requires all of us! This year’s theme, Building Connected Communities, is all about creating safer, healthier communities free from sexual violence. Community-level prevention is key. In honor of this year’s theme, BARCC will be highlighting our community partnerships throughout the month and how together, we’re creating and growing a network of support for survivors.
How Can I Help?
Want to support survivors this month but not sure where to start? Here are five ways you can support us in our mission to end sexual violence:
- Stay Informed | All Month Long – Make sure you are following BARCC on social media to learn more about our work with survivors and how you can support it.
- SAAM Day of Action | April 2 – Start SAAM off right by getting the word out on social media. Teal is the color for sexual violence prevention, so post a picture of yourself wearing teal with the hashtag #SAAM2024 April 2 to show your support for survivors.
- WALK FOR CHANGE | April 21 – BARCC’s annual Walk for Change is an incredible opportunity to raise awareness, advocate for change, and support survivors of sexual violence in their journey toward healing and empowerment. Join us on Sunday, April 21 at Constitution Beach by registering at barcc.org/walk.
- Denim Day | April 24 – What someone is wearing is never an excuse for sexual violence. Just like on SAAM Day of Action, you can use your clothes and social media posts to show support for survivors by wearing denim and using the hashtag #DenimDay. You can read all about the case that inspired this day of solidarity here.
- Check-In With a Survivor | All Month Long – One of the best ways to live out this month’s theme of Building Connected Communities is to connect with those in your life who may be struggling this month. Ask them if they would like to go out for coffee, chat on the phone, or watch a movie.
Take Care of Yourself and Others
While SAAM is a great time to raise awareness for sexual violence, it can also be difficult for survivors to be surrounded by so much content about sexual violence. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the amount of SAAM content on your timeline, you can filter out certain words or phrases on Instagram, such as “SAAM” or “sexual violence.”
Are you a survivor looking for an opportunity to relax and get creative with other survivors? Join us for our Self-Care Workshop: Bracelets for Survivors where you can make friendship bracelets for yourself and fellow survivors. Learn more.
- Tuesday, April 23 | 6:00 p.m.–7:15 p.m.
- 99 Bishop Allen Dr. Cambridge, MA 02139
- Call Gaby at 617-245-8098 to register.
If you or a loved one need support this month, call BARCC’s 24/7 hotline at 800-841-8371 or send us a chat between 9 a.m.–11 p.m. to receive support and be connected with resources.
