In observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA) has launched a new public awareness campaign focusing on consent and its role in healthy relationships and the prevention of sexual violence.
Weekly themes are:
- April 1-3: Healthy relationships begin with consent
- April 6-10: Prevention starts with what we teach our kids
- April 13-17: Consent is an ongoing conversation
- April 20-24: Speak up when something doesn't seem right
- April 27-30: Support for sexual assault survivors is near you
Sexual assault statistics for South Carolina show nearly 3,000 sexual assaults were reported to law enforcement in 2024. Almost 90% of victims were female with about 50% of those under age 18. More than 40% of victim-to-offender relationships were acquaintances and just over 31% of assaults occurred at a residence or home.
SCCADVASA encourages the public to get involved in #SAAM2026 by downloading the social media kit, following the organization's social media accounts (@sccadvasa on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky and LinkedIn) to help amply messaging and support for survivors, and participating in Denim Day on April 29.
Additionally, South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) have partnered with SCCADVASA for a yearlong partnership, South Carolina Speaks: Focus on Domestic Violence. The initiative explores the impact of domestic violence and sexual assault on individuals, families and communities in South Carolina. To learn more about the partnership and view projects, visit SCETV online.