Breaking the Silence: Sexual Assault Awareness Month

By Emily Cowan, Lead Victim Advocate, My Sister's House

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month—a time to shine light on an issue that too often remains hidden.

At My Sister’s House, we support survivors through hospital accompaniment, court advocacy, safety planning, and therapy. In my role, I meet individuals whose strength is remarkable. Yet many suffer in silence due to stigma, fear, and uncertainty about being believed. When a survivor finds the courage to speak, that moment matters. Our role is to believe them, support

them, and walk alongside them as they begin to heal.

I recently worked with a survivor who chose to pursue criminal charges—an incredibly brave step. The process can be intimidating and long, but here in Iredell County, we are fortunate to have a network of agencies working together to support survivors and hold offenders accountable.

If you’re wondering how to help, start here: believe survivors, educate yourself, and talk openly about consent. Just as importantly, challenge harmful myths—sexual assault is not about desire, but power; no one “asks for it”; and survival looks different in every situation.

Together, we can replace silence with support—and ensure no one has to walk this path alone. How you can help:

Start with Awareness

• Believe survivors

• Learn the signs and realities of sexual assault

• Talk openly about consent and respect

Challenge Harmful Myths

• Sexual assault is about power—not desire

• No one ever “asks for it”

• There is no “right” way to respond or survive

Support My Sister’s House

• Invite us to speak at your group or organization

• Volunteer your time and talents to support survivors

• Help us raise awareness in the community

To learn more visit the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault for resources, education, and ways to get involved. https://nccassa.org or call our 24-hour crisis hotline: 704-872-3403.