The ways that we can raise awareness of sexual assault are numerous. First of all, when someone tells you that they've been assaulted, you need to believe them. Also, enforcing the concept of consent and that ONLY yes means yes. I think it's important to hold people accountable for their actions as well. Sexual assault is the only crime where the perpetrators are protected and the victims are questioned. We have to stop teaching our kids that "boys will be boys" and start teaching them that boys can and will be held accountable for their actions.
It's On Us is a nationwide campaign supported by President Barack Obama that aims to bring awareness to the issue of sexual assault. Their key objectives are "to RECOGNIZE that non-consensual sex is sexual assault.To IDENTIFY situations in which sexual assault may occur. To INTERVENE in situations where consent has not or cannot be given. To CREATE an environment in which sexual assault is unacceptable and survivors are supported." Since this is a program started by the white house, there isn't really funding because it's only a social media campaign. However, through the Violence Against Women Act, over $400 million of funding is provided each year through more than 20 different national grant programs, which are administered by the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women, to reduce domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. It's On Us has gotten positive press, especially because it's endorsed by several different celebrities.
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