One in every five boys and one in every four adult females have experienced the same.
“Sexual assault is a daily occurrence everywhere, including the CNMI but most of the incidents will not make it to the newspapers because the victims chose to suffer in silence,” Brade said during yesterday’s Rotary Club meeting at the Hyatt Regency Saipan.
This, according to Brade, is based on a nationwide assessment which includes the CNMI.
“What the police have on their records is a far cry from the real situation,” Brade said.
Although she did not provide exact figures, Brade said the sexual assault incidents occurring in the CNMI are similar to what is happening in other parts of the world.
“Sexual assault happens everywhere, and majority of the victims do not speak out. It is very important for sexual assault victims and survivors to know that they have the support and resources available in the community to help them rebuild their lives,” Brade said.
Brade stressed the importance of instilling awareness that sexual assault is wrong and that it should not be tolerated.
She said the U.S. and its territories should make full use of the Sex Offenders Registry of the Department of Public Safety.
Brade is on island with National Organization of Sisters of Color Ending Sexual Assault communication specialist Sopheak Tek and program coordinator Val Fergus to conduct an assessment on the resources available for sexual assault victims and survivor in the CNMI.
“In a week or so, we will be able to complete our assessment and identify the resources, training and support available, as well as make recommendations on what the island needs to address the needs of sexual assault victims and survivors,” Brade said.
