By Prince Albert Sexual Assault Centre and Prince Albert Mobile Crisis

Prince Albert Sexual Assault Centre recognizes Sexual Violence Awareness Week

May 16, 2022 | 9:21 AM

May 16 to 20 is Sexual Violence Awareness Week in Saskatchewan

Every May, Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS), its member agencies, community partners and the Government of Saskatchewan recognize Sexual Violence Awareness Week (SVAW) to raise awareness of issues relating to sexual violence in Saskatchewan.

SVAW aims to shift attitudes and beliefs surrounding the issue of sexual violence through educational events, resources, and changemaking conversations. This years’ campaign shines a light on the issue of sexual exploitation and human trafficking in Saskatchewan. This issue has been happening for years in our province, however, there is a significant gap when it comes to understanding, addressing, and responding to the issue.

One of the most common misconceptions of human trafficking is that individuals are kidnapped or smuggled by strangers across borders in foreign countries. When in reality, people are trafficked here in Saskatchewan every day and most often by someone they are in an intimate relationship with.

“Our office has seen an increase in sexual assault services being utilized. Human trafficking in the sense that it happens in our own backyard, is new terminology for our survivors. Often times, they do not realize they have been trafficked by someone they love or trust. Our agency is working with the community to bring awareness to human trafficking and sexual violence. We want survivors to know that we can help, at any point” said PASAC Director, Vicki Stewart.

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PASAC provides free, confidential counselling and support services for survivors and the family of survivors affected by sexual violence. We work with all demographics and gender identities, from children to adults. We provide information, support, advocacy, referrals and both short- and long-term counselling as well as education to the community.

Our office serves Prince Albert, Meadow Lake, La Ronge and all surrounding areas. If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual violence or human trafficking, please reach out to us for support at 306-764-1039, saw@pacrisis.ca or on social media. We are here for you, when you are ready to start your journey of healing.

To learn more about SVAW, visit sassk.ca/SVAW for the campaign guide, resource lists, and information about the virtual events taking place throughout the week.

Follow @pasexualassaultcentre and @sass.sask and the hashtag #sexualviolenceawarenessweek and #morethanaredflag to help us shine a light on sexual violence in Saskatchewan.