While sexual violence is a topic that is rarely discussed in the workplace, many employees have been directly or indirectly impacted by this issue. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have experienced a form of sexual violence in their lifetimes. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, 70% of LGBTQIA+ members of the community have experienced sexual harassment at work, and 66% were afraid to tell their employer for fear of being outed. Whether or not it happened at work, the impact of this trauma can be long-lasting and far-reaching. 

You may have a colleague who experienced sexual assault as a child and has never received support or been able to access resources. While this trauma may have occurred decades ago, they may have recurring nightmares, difficulty trusting others, or struggle with addiction. You may have an employee who has a child who was recently sexually assaulted at their University. They may be trying to support their child through a Title IX or court process while also privately processing their own shock and pain. You may have a colleague who received inappropriate comments on a sales call and doesn’t know who or how to talk about what they experienced. 

Not every employee has had these exact experiences, but all employees can benefit from a workplace that demonstrates a commitment to addressing and preventing sexual violence. Taking time in this April, which is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, to directly address this issue can be incredibly meaningful to your employees and have a positive impact on your workplace culture. Small actions can make a big difference; here are three simple strategies your company can engage in this month:

Universal education: If you have a physical office space, you can hang posters or leave brochures in gathering spaces that publicize local resources. If your company is primarily remote, you can share these resources on employee slack channels and/or company-wide emails. 

Participate in SAAM events: Many local Rape Crisis Centers have events such as awareness raising walks, community workshops, and fundraisers in April. Encourage employees to participate as a company team. 

Offer workshops and lunch and learns: Workshops can address a range of topics and will offer a supportive space for employees to ask questions, learn together, and be connected to resources. 

JT Consulting can partner with your company to plan a strategy that best fits your needs and workplace culture. We can offer workshops and offer a communication strategy so whether this is an event offered to a select group (i.e. HR and leadership or a specific ERG) or is company-wide, all employees can see and feel the commitment your company has to address and prevent sexual violence. 

Workshops can be tailored to your specific needs. Examples include:

• How to Support Employees who have Experienced Sexual Violence 

• How to Support a Loved One who has Experienced Sexual Violence 

• We All Have a Role to Play: How We Can Actively Address and Prevent Sexual Violence

• Talking with Your Kids about Consent and Healthy Relationships 

April is here so if you haven’t planned anything yet, schedule a call with Jess today to get started. And thank you for taking a stand this month- and every month- and actively addressing sexual violence in your workplace and community.