2007 SAAM Campaign > Ten Community Prevention Actions
Prevent Sexual Violence…in our communities — Everyone has a role to play in creating safe and healthy communities, neighborhoods, and institutions. Below is the NSVRC’s 2007 list of community prevention actions (in no particular order).
- Local media designates a week to focus on positive images and stories of girls and women, relationships, and healthy sexuality. During this week, community leaders honor local heroes who are positive role models.
- Educators teach non-violent conflict-resolution skills and promote anti-bullying values that demonstrate respect for everyone.
- Coaches and fans emphasize skill-development, teamwork, character and sportsmanship over competition. Players are motivated with praise. Sponsor gender violence prevention training for youth athletic teams.
- Community Centers provide forums for inter-generational discussions and activities about pop culture and technology. Activities can include helping older people to learn more about newer technologies, and helping younger people learn to notice and critically evaluate underlying themes and messages in games, movies, music and ads.
- Health Care Providers talk with patients about normal human development and healthy, consensual
- Faith and Spiritual Community members sponsor activities that demonstrate appreciation for diversity, such as hosting educational activities around various holidays, and inviting people to share favorite recipes and talk about their family traditions that build respect.
- Young People value the uniqueness of each person; find positive friends; reach out to at-risk peers; develop leadership skills; and speak out about ways to show respect.
- Artists and Businesses work together to create/display murals, posters, kites, or variations on the“ cow parade” phenomenon illustrating healthy relationships.
- Employers promote violence-free workplaces; establish and enforce sexual harassment and antibullying policies; contribute resources to programs that are working to make a difference.
- “Wear a Pin; Share a Pin.” Groups encourage members to wear a teal ribbon awareness pin. Make them available to give away with information on what to say when someone asks about the teal pin.
