What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual violence is a serious problem that affects millions of people every year. (CDC Injury Center) Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual contact or sexual attention committed by force, threat, bribe, manipulation, pressure, deception, entrapment, surprise, or abuse of one's position of authority. It is a crime. Sexual assault is usually physical, but can be verbal or emotional as well. It includes rape and attempted rape, sexual touching, child sexual abuse, incest, marital rape and sexual harassment. Sexual assault is a terrifying and often brutal crime. People who commit sexual assaults may be strangers, acquaintances, trusted friends or family members. The devastating effects of sexual assault are shared by victims and by those who love them.
Sexual assault is a crime of violence, control, anger, and power. It is not motivated by sexual desire. Perpetrators use sexual assault as a weapon to control, humiliate and hurt their victims. Victims are targeted for their vulnerability, not their attractiveness, appearance or behavior. Anyone, regardless of age can become a victim. Sexual assault of any kind is never the victim's fault. No one ever “asks for” or deserves to be sexually assaulted.