State of Alaska > Governor > Proclamations  > Full Proclamation

Sexual Assault Awareness Month   Printer Friendly

WHEREAS, sexual assault impacts men, women, and children of all racial, cultural, and economic backgrounds, any of whom can and do experience acquaintance rape, stranger rape, sexual assault by an intimate partner, child sexual abuse, incest, sexual harassment, prostitution, and pornography; and

WHEREAS, the intolerable crime of sexual assault violates the privacy, dignity, security, and humanity of an individual, and carries health implications for all Alaskans. Sexual assault leaves long-lasting physical and emotional scars that can influence every aspect of a person’s life, weather as a victim/survivor, or as a family member, friend, neighbor….etc; and

WHEREAS, Alaska continues to have the highest per capita occurrence of sexual assault in the nation at 2.5 times the national average, with 25 percent of Alaskans reporting they have been forced into unwanted sexual activities. One in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually assaulted by age 18, and

WHEREAS, we recognize the strength and courage of the victims and survivors, along with their families and friends, as they struggle to cope with the reality and long-term trauma of sexual assault; and

WHEREAS, we also recognize the compassion, commitment, and dedication of the individuals who provide services to survivors and work to increase public understanding; and

WHEREAS, recognizing sexual assault as a problem in every community, large and small, and speaking out against sexual assault are important first steps to eliminating this devastating crime; and

WHEREAS, united in this effort, we can make a difference and have an Alaska free from sexual violence; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sarah Palin, Governor of the state of Alaska, do hereby proclaim April 2009 as:

Sexual Assault Awareness Month

in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to stand up and speak out against sexual assault.

Dated: March 30, 2009