“Preventing sexual assault is a year-round priority for CNIC, but SAAPM provides a timely opportunity to engage with the Sailors and civilians onboard our installations,” said Dr. Taleeta Jackson, CNIC headquarters Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program manager.
Sexual Assault Response Coordinators (SARCs) at installations across the shore enterprise will hold SAAPM observances throughout the month of April. These efforts aim to raise service member awareness about which behaviors create a climate permissive of sexual assault and harassment, how to intervene when they see something concerning as well as what sexual assault prevention and reporting resources are available to them.
“We must create a culture where people feel supported and work to prevent sexual assault before it occurs,” said Jackson. “Everyone has the opportunity to be a leader and an advocate against sexual assault. In order to eliminate sexual crimes in the Navy, we must all commit ourselves to treating others with respect, protecting each other from harm through active intervention and empowering those around us to speak up or intervene.”
Victims of sexual assault can turn to a number of Navy and Department of Defense resources for help. Fleet and Family Support Centers employ SARCs and Sexual Assault Prevention Response Victim Advocates (SAPR VAs) who offer trauma-informed care, referrals and ongoing non-clinical support. Special Victims' Counsel and Victims' Legal Counsel provide legal representation and assist with navigating the military justice system.
Additionally, the DoD Safe Helpline is available 24/7 to assist victims with reporting and information. Service members can call (877) 995-5247 or (202) 540-5962 to reach a trained, confidential, Safe Helpline staff member. DSN users can call (877) 995-5247. OCONUS Service members can contact the Telephone Helpline for free from anywhere globally by using Voice over IP (VoIP) technology from the Safe Helpline App.
For more information about preventing sexual assault, visit https://cnic.navy.mil/saapm or speak with a SARC at your local Fleet and Family Support Center.
Commander, Navy Installations Command oversees 48,000 employees located across 70 Navy shore installations in 10 regions around the world and is charged with sustaining the fleet, enabling the fighter and supporting the family. For more news from CNIC, visit www.cnic.navy.mil or follow the command’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.