April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

As a law firm that represents victims of sexual assault, and survivors of campus sexual assault, we are acutely aware of the devastating impact that sexual violence has on individuals, families, and entire communities. This is  why we partake each year in Sexual Assault Awareness Month each April to raise public awareness about the issue and also work to promote justice, healing, and advocating for important legislation and policy efforts.

Founding Partner Laura Dunn is not only an advocate for survivors of campus sexual assault, she is also a survivor herself. This April marks the 19th anniversary of this traumatic event that ignited her passion to increase the prospect of justice for survivors by holding both perpetrators and enablers accountable. Over the last two decades, Laura has dedicated herself to doing extraordinary work in the field of anti-gender violence. She has also shared her experience with sexual violence on numerous occasions to ensure survivors know they are not alone. 

Here are her first interviews as a survivor, which are part of the national award-winning investigative journalism series by the Center for Public Integrity on campus sexual assault and the federal civil right addressing it, Title IX: . 

During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we recognize and are grateful for Laura’s unwavering commitment to supporting survivors on campus and creating a safer, more just world by enforcing and defending important laws such as the Clery Act, Title IX, and others that work to keep survivors safe.

This year’s theme, from the NSRV (National Sexual Violence Resource Center),  is “Drawing Connections: Prevention Demands Equity.” This campaign calls on all individuals, communities, organizations, and institutions to change ourselves and the systems surrounding us to build racial equity and respect as part of intersectional work to end sexual violence. Sexual violence and harassment are pervasive problems in our society, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, but particularly affecting people of color at significantly higher rate than other races. According to the NSVR Center, one in five women and nearly a quarter of men in the United States will experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime — and few report their assault. 

At our law firm, we believe that every survivor of sexual assault deserves compassionate, effective legal representation — and all perpetrators and enablers needs to be held accountable. We know that seeking justice after a traumatic experience can be overwhelming and daunting, which is why we work tirelessly to support our clients every step of the way. Our team is composed of survivors and we are committed to helping fellow survivors pursue justice.

During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we encourage everyone to learn more about this important issue and to take action by donating to your state coalition against sexual assault. Whether it’s volunteering with a local organization, attending a prevention workshop, or simply having a conversation with someone about healthy relationships, we all have a role to play in ending sexual violence.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, our law firm is here to help. We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your legal options and to provide the support and guidance you need to move forward. Please don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more. Together, we can work towards a world where sexual violence and harassment is no longer a common reality.