IN a moving proclamation ceremony on Thursday, Gov. Ralph DLG Torres proclaimed April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
This year’s theme is “Believe. Engage. Empower,” which calls on everyone, especially those with authority and influence, to turn belief into action to make our spaces and community safer for survivors and for everyone.
Joined by Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence executive director Maisie B. Tenorio and board chair Reina C. Camacho, Torres expressed his appreciation for the NMCADSV, as well as other organizations in the CNMI whose services help victims and survivors heal and move forward.
Also in attendance were Senate President Jude U. Hofschneider, House Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez, other local dignitaries, survivors, non-profit organizations, and community members.
This year’s inspirational speakers were Commonwealth Ports Authority board chair Kimberlyn King-Hinds and Fred Sato, who both gave personal testimonies of their experiences with sexual violence or sexual assault.
The proclamation states that sexual violence or sexual assault, commonly defined as any sexual act without consent, is a global problem that exists in all communities, even ones as small as the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
“Sexual assault is deeply rooted in certain beliefs, attitudes, and social norms that include the false belief that, in marriage, spouses are entitled to sexual intercourse with the other partner.”
Sexual assault, the proclamation notes, does not discriminate.
“While some populations, like children, are more vulnerable, anyone can be a victim of sexual assault, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, faith, socioeconomic status, or ability… The issue of sexual assault remains one that many are silent about, despite the fact that it is happening at incredibly high rates,” the proclamation reads.
Moreover, it says that survivors are often made to feel shame and fear, making it extremely difficult for them to report the crime or seek other forms of assistance.
In turn, the vast majority of sexual assaults are reported years later or not reported at all, leaving victims without justice and services.
Sexual assault is said to have a devastating and even lasting impact on victims and survivors psychologically, emotionally, and physically.
The proclamation states that the purpose of Sexual Assault Awareness Month is to give hope and support to victims and survivors of sexual assault and to raise public awareness about the issue.
It also aims to provide the resources everyone needs to act toward ending sexual violence.
“You can start by thinking about how to create spaces where everyone feels safe and respected… Ending sexual violence starts with believing survivors and believing in ourselves and our own unique ability to make a difference. This belief propels us all to be a voice for survivors, and to engage with others to empower them to also know they can and should make a difference, too… We all must join with the [NMCADSV], the [DYS], and all other government and community-based organizations to increase sexual assault awareness, to support providers and volunteers, and to bring hope for healing to victims and survivors.
“[I]t is incredibly alarming that so many survivors are met with such extreme disbelief and even hostility… This reaction intimidates or shames them into silence, but you can be the reason they feel safe, worthy of kindness and respect, and empowered. Start by believing.”
Governor Torres, for his part, called on all citizens and communities to speak out against sexual assault and support local and national efforts that take part in ending such violence.
According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, over 92-98% of reports of sexual violence are true.
Many dedicated citizens of the Commonwealth are working to provide quality services and assistance to survivors of sexual assault, through participating in the Sexual Assault Response Team, staffing a 24-hour shelter, answering calls on a 24-hour helpline, responding to emergency calls, providing competent and compassionate forensic exams, and offering support, comfort and advocacy during criminal justice proceedings.
Gov. Ralph DLG Torres poses for a photo with other CNMI officials, advocates and community members after signing a proclamation designating April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
