Sexual Assault & Sexual Harassment

Sexual assault or forced sexual contact is NOT normal sexual behavior.

Sexual Assault is not only rape; it is also any unwanted sexual activity. Even if you have said "yes" to sex with the person before, or you are in a relationship, no one has the right to have sex with you or pressure you into doing things you don't want to do. Any time you do not say "yes" to a sexual act, it is sexual assault.

If you have been sexually assaulted it is very important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Statistics

• Of reported sexual assaults, 67% were under 18, 34% were under 12, and 14% were under 6. (U.S. Department of Justice, 2003)
• Women victimized in adolescence were nearly 5 times more likely than other to experience some form of sexual coercion in their first year of college. (Journal of Adolescent Health, 2000)
• 1 in 4 women report being raped by a current or former partner, spouse, or date. (CALCASA, 2003)
• 80 to 90% of sexual assault victims know their perpetrator. (US Dept. of Justice, 2003)

Sexual Harassment is any unwelcome sexual advances, sexual innuendos, request for sexual favors, sexually degrading words or jokes, or verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment is NOT flirting.

If you or someone you know is feeling uncomfortable about their interactions with someone, call WEAVE's 24-Hour Crisis Line to access any of the following services:

Counseling Group and individual counseling covers topics such as healthy relationships vs. abusive relationships, the impact of media messages on teens, and assertive communication. For teens 14 and older parent permission is not required, but preferred.

Advocacy WEAVE Sexual Assault Advocates are available 24-hours a day to survivors of sexual assault. Advocates will accompany and support you through the medical exam, law enforcement interview and investigation.