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Tom Reed sponsored a Congressional resolution recognizing April as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. "We care about the survivors of sexual assault and want to come together to stop this preventable tragedy," said Reed. "This is something that has personally impacted my family and we need to stand with these survivors. They need to know that if they come forward, we will believe them, and hold their attackers accountable. It's just the right thing to do."

The bipartisan co-sponsor Rep. Jackie Speier (D-CA) had this to say: "From the military to college campuses, we are still fighting for climates free from harassment and sexual violence. Sexual assault survivors deserve our support in speech and action. We are all affected by sexual assault and we each have a role in preventing these crimes, from direct intervention to opposing an environment that leaves far too many perpetrators unpunished. I am proud to support National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month as well as many other initiatives to combat sexual assault and help survivors."

Studies show one in five women and one in 71 men have been raped, with children and young adults being most at risk of sexual assault. Further, less than half of survivors of sexual assault pursue prosecution by reporting their attack to law enforcement, making sexual assault the most underreported violent crime.

"As we raise awareness about this issue, we are able to encourage survivors to come forward and stop assault from occurring.  That is something we can all support," said Reed.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by sexual assault, please contact local law enforcement to report this crime.  Additional resources are available for survivors. To learn more, contact the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline for safe and confidential help at 800-656-HOPE (4673).

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