HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Every 73 seconds, a person in America is sexually assaulted. In 2019, there were 281 cases of rape reported in Alabama.
Advocates at AshaKiran, a culturally-sensitive and trauma formed organization aimed at helping victims and survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking, and domestic violence, are taking the month of April to raise awareness for sexual assault.
AshaKiran Community Outreach Coordinator Cara Godlesky says sexual assault isn't just an issue for women.
"Every one in six men have experienced sexual assault or some type of sexual abuse whether it's in childhood or adulthood," said Godlesky. "This goes to show whether who you are or what your gender is, age, no matter what background you have, this issue can affect you."
Of the sexual assaults that happen each year, it's estimated only about a third of them are reported. In most cases, the victim knows the offender.
"I think reporting it can be an issue for some people whether they are ashamed because of cultural norms because in some cultures that can be something you don't want to talk about, you just brush it under the rug," said Godlesky.
Godlesky says it can be difficult for minorities or people not from the United States to know where to go for help.
"We aim to try to break down cultural barriers so that people can seek help," said Godlesky. "It might be intimidating if you don't know the language, if you are coming from a different country."
AshaKiran wants people to feel comfortable reaching out for help and healing.
If you want to talk with someone, their 24-7 crisis line is available in fifty different languages. That number is 1-800-793-3010.
You can also fill out a form on the AshaKiran website that allows you to e-mail confidentially.
For more information, click here.
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