In recognition of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the City of Alexandria is holding a series of events and activities throughout April to support survivors and engage the community in prevention efforts.

Sexual assault is a crime that occurs when a person is forced, threatened or coerced by anyone into sexual contact or attention. This includes when they are unable to consent due to age, illness, disability or the influence of alcohol or other drugs. In addition to any form of forced physical sexual contact, examples include indecent exposure, voyeurism, obscene phone calls, ritual abuse, and sexual harassment. 

Sexual assault happens in all communities to people of any age and gender. Survivors may experience a range of emotional, psychological and physical reactions. Whether the sexual assault happened recently or years ago, it can impede daily functioning. 

The City’s Sexual Assault Center (SAC) is sponsoring the following activities and events:

* Attend “Embrace Your Voice,” annual poetry share on April 11 from 6- 8:30 p.m.at the Lee Center ( 108 Jefferson St.) Register as a poet or attendee.

* Join the planting of the Pinwheel Garden for Child Abuse Awareness on April 12 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Charles Hill Park. See how to plant your own pinwheel garden.

* Wear denim on April 24 and post with #DenimDay to support survivors of sexual violence.

* Look for Sexual Assault Center coasters and coffee sleeves at local restaurants to encourage coffee drinkers in need to access help.

* See the Clothesline Project, which addresses violence against women through clothing decorated to express their emotions. A display will be at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center (4850 Mark Center Dr.) through April.

* Donate to the Sexual Assault Center.

* Meet the City of Alexandria employees who provide support to those affected by sexual assault by following DCHS on Facebook or Twitter.

The Sexual Assault Center offers resources and services for survivors of sexual assault and those supporting survivors. Learn more at alexandriava.gov/SexualViolence or call the 24/7 hotline at 703-683-7273. In case of an emergency call 911.