Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week

Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week
5th– 9th February 2018

In the wake of the allegations of Sexual Harassment and Assault against Hollywood Movie Mogul Harvey Weinstein in October of 2017, multiple men in the entertainment industry, media and politics have faced allegations ranging from inappropriate sexual behaviour to sexual misconduct. In total Eighty-four women came forward accusing Weinstein of inappropriate behaviour, intimidating sexual advances and rape. Although men have faced sexual misconduct claims in the past, the accusations against Weinstein have opened the floodgates in conversations, awareness and support for the victims of these crimes.

Attendees of the prestigious Golden Globe Awards stood united with victims of sexual assault and harassment in the entertainment industry by following the black dress code. The celebrities including Reece Wetherspoon and Nicole Kidman all wore black in a silent protest against the abuse centred on allegations made against Weinstein with big names such as Oprah Winfrey using their time on the podium to thank the brave woman who spoke out against abuse.

Following this there was a flood of support for the “Me Too” movement and “Time’s Up” campaign with the hashtag #MeToo trending worldwide.

Following the huge success and media storm following the silent protest at the Golden Globes, attendees at the 2018 Grammy awards opted to hold or wear a white rose to show their support of the movement. “We choose the white rose because historically it stands for hope, peace, sympathy and resistance. The world is listening. Wear a white rose.” wrote Meg Markins of Roc Nation and Karen Rait of Interscope, Geffen and A&M Records.

Sexual Violence and Abuse does not just occur with the rich and famous but are prevalent around the world within a variety of organisations and situations.

The Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week was established to give an opportunity for the general public and a variety of organisations to take part in discussions on the subject. Between Monday 5th and Friday 9th February, agencies will be highlighting awareness of these issues and encouraging discussions about sexual abuse and sexual violence and how to prevent it.

All forms of sexual abuse and sexual violence are unacceptable and victims and/or survivors should not have to tolerate it. It is important both victims and perpetrators of sexual abuse and sexual violence are aware there is public discussions are taking place with the view to promote specialist services that organisations are offering.

Join conversations and raise awareness on social media using #itsnotok @itsnotok2018 and #metoo

If you would like more information, contact info@sexualabuseandsexualviolenceawarenessweek.org or you can view more information, resources and organisations supporting the awareness week by clicking here.