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April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and today, April 5, is Start by Believing Day. We encourage citizens, organizations, community groups and media alike to take the I #STARTBYBELIEVING pledge and end the cycle of silence about sexualized violence.
As first responders, we recognize that reporting a sexual assault to anyone, let alone police, can be difficult. It’s common for victims to fear they won’t be believed or taken seriously and made to feel ashamed. Halifax Regional Police and RCMP recognize the importance of a victim’s feelings and continue to provide support through a victim-centred and trauma-informed approach.
That’s why we’re partnering with Avalon Sexual Assault Centre to encourage people to take part in the I #STARTBYBELIEVING campaign. By taking the pledge, we’re committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where a victim of sexualized violence is listened to and supported so they can make informed decisions and access services and supports. Similarly, citizens and other organizations can choose to believe and offer support if someone tells you that they were sexually assaulted.
Please join us by taking the #STARTBYBELIEVING pledge today, any time during Sexual Assault Awareness Month or any other day throughout the year – it’s never too late.