April 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). This milestone honors survivors, advocates, and communities committed to ending sexual abuse, assault, and harassment.
Before SAAM was officially recognized, efforts to address sexual violence were shaped by decades of community involvement, survivor leadership, and people working to improve safety and support. Early organizers, including many women of color, helped bring attention to the realities of sexual assault and created some of the first spaces dedicated to supporting survivors.
For 25 years, SAAM has called attention to the reality that sexual violence affects every community. The theme “25 Years Strong: Looking Back, Moving Forward” reflects on the movement’s history and progress while reaffirming our commitment to a safer future for all.
Honoring the Past, Strengthening the Future
Looking back, we recognize the survivors who shared their stories, the advocates who laid the foundation for change, and the communities that moved prevention work forward. Their dedication and care have shaped Sexual Assault Awareness Month into a nationwide effort grounded in resilience, collaboration, and connection.
Moving forward, we renew our focus on prevention, healing, and shared responsibility. Prevention happens in workplaces, schools, online spaces, and neighborhoods, and each of us has a role in creating environments rooted in safety, respect, and accountability.
25 Years of Stronger
Sexual Assault Awareness Month has grown from local, community-driven events into a coordinated national effort that reaches individuals, families, institutions, and organizations. NSVRC has helped guide this growth by providing relevant resources, gathering feedback from partners across the country, and shaping themes and tools that support both awareness and prevention.
Survivors’ experiences continue to guide this work and inspire approaches that reflect the needs of those most affected. When communities support one another and young people raise their voices, prevention becomes stronger and more sustainable.
25 years strong. Every voice matters. Every action counts.
Stay Connected and Get Involved
As we approach April 2026, we’ll share new resources, tools, and opportunities to get involved and make a difference in your community. Stay connected by following @NSVRC on social media and using the #SAAM2026 hashtag to keep up with campaign updates and ways to participate. You can also subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates directly in your inbox.