Did You Know This Month is Sexual Assault Awareness Month? We Didn't Either.

When we found out April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), we realized something important: a lot of people in our community didn’t know either. Gerlicia (GG) Thompson from Family Crisis Center’s Community Awareness & Prevention Education (C.A.P.E) program in Bastrop, Texas, shared with us that even some of our own neighbors aren’t aware. And if they didn’t know, how would we?

The Silent Impact of Sexual Violence.

The truth is, sexual violence is silently and deeply affecting our community. Next year, we are committed to being more intentional about bringing awareness to this vital issue—because it’s too important to ignore.

Sexual Violence Doesn’t Discriminate.

Sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or background. In Texas alone, over 18,000 sexual assaults were reported in 2022—and many more went unreported. In Bastrop County, there are currently over 80 registered sex offenders. These numbers aren’t just statistics; they represent real people and real pain right here where we live.

Why Awareness Matters

Many survivors are hurt by someone they know, which makes the trauma even harder to talk about. And sadly, because of fear, shame, or the belief that no one will believe them, most survivors never come forward. That’s why awareness matters. That’s why our voices matter.

Small Actions, Big Change

If we want a safer, stronger community, we have to be willing to speak up and show up. Small actions—like challenging victim-blaming, supporting survivors, and sharing helpful resources—help shift our culture. Every conversation counts. Every act of support counts.

Local Efforts to Build Safer Communities

The Family Crisis Center is leading efforts across Bastrop, Caldwell, Fayette, and Lee Counties to raise awareness and create safer spaces. They’re inviting local leaders, businesses, and community members to take part in trainings, awareness events like Teal Day (April 1) and Denim Day (April 30), and to show visible support for survivors through their “Sexual Assault Awareness Support Squad” initiative.

Going Forward.

This year, we’re learning. Next year, we’ll be louder, prouder, and more prepared to stand with survivors—and to educate those around us.

Together, We Can Make a Difference.

Your voice matters. Your actions matter. Together, we can make a difference—not just this month, but every month. Let’s commit to building a future where healing, dignity, and safety are the norm, not the exception.