Hurts One Affects All

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Camilla Griffin
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE, Ariz., --  The Desert Lightning Team is hosting several events in support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, here

Vickie Jo Ryder, 355th Fighter Wing sexual assault response coordinator, says surveys show that one in four women will be sexually assaulted while on active duty, and one in 33 men are sexually assaulted while on active duty.

D-M has scheduled special events to raise awareness and promote prevention of sexual assault.

"April is national Sexual Assault Awareness Month," Ryder said. "We want everyone to know that the motto for sexual assault is 'hurts one, affects all', because it is not just that one person who is affected by it. It affects families, coworkers and friends, and for those in the Air Force it affects the mission."

Agencies, both on and off-base, are stepping up their efforts to support victims during this month.

Throughout the month of April, the Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault closet at the Tucson Medical Center will be collecting clothing for survivors of sexual assault. The SACASA closet is in need of new sweatshirts, sweatpants, t-shirts, underwear, etc. Donations can be dropped off at the Airman & Family Readiness Center (Bldg 2441), Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (Bldg 2300), 355th Medical Group, 355th Communications Squadron and 355th Operations Support Squadron.

Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) classes will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. April 8-11 and April 22-25. The free basic physical defense class is open to women and female children ages nine and up. Participants must attend all four sessions. Contact Jerry Conner at jerry.conner@dm.af.mil to sign up.

The Clothesline Project will be held from 11 a.m. -1 p.m. April 8 at the Base Exchange, April 22 at the 355th MDG and again on April 29 at the Benko Fitness Center. There will be a display and information table. Visitors will have the opportunity to decorate and write inspirational messages to survivors on shirts.

Denim Day will be held on April 24. Victim Advocates and others with commander's approval will wear denim to work and answer questions to help dispel harmful attitudes about sexual assault.

For more information, contact the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office at 228-7272.