What is Sexual Violence?

Sexual Violence is defined as any form of non-consensual sexual behaviour or activity that violates an individual’s autonomy and bodily integrity, such as sexual assault, rape, sexual harassment, molestation, coercion, and any unwanted sexual contact or behavior. Behaviors can involve the use of force, threats, manipulation, or exploitation to engage in sexual activity without the explicit and voluntary consent of the victim.

Sexual Violence can occur across various settings and relationships, institutions and broader societal contexts.

What is consent?

-Consent is when someone freely agrees to engage in a certain act.

-It must be voluntary, without coercion, pressure, or manipulation from others.

-Consent is informed, meaning that all individuals involved must fully understand what they are agreeing to and be capable of making decisions freely.

-Consent can be withdrawn at any time.

-NO – is a complete sentence.

How to Advocate & Support

Believe and Validate: assure survivors they are not alone and are believed and supported. Validate their feelings and assure them they are not to blame. Reframe from making judgements or assumptions and focus on providing non-judgemental support.
Listen and encourage them to share their story at their own pace. Allow for silent moments and avoid interrupting.
Express empathy and offer emotional support. Let them know you are there for them and offer to help connect them to localized resources and services. Do no pressure them and respect their boundaries.
Respect their autonomy and let them make their own decisions about what steps to take next.
Follow up by checking in to see how they are doing and offer continued support.
Be sure to take care of yourself. Supporting a survivor can be emotionally challenging. Remember to prioritize your own well-being and seek support for yourself if needed.