VAWnet News Blog

by Ali Mailen Perrotto of the National Sexual Violence Resource Center We often hear from advocates in the field who are struggling to bring their messages of healthy sexuality to pockets of their communities that are very conservative, very religious, or both. We know that increasing individual knowledge about sex and sexuality is a key piece of the sexual violence prevention puzzle, so it’s important to find ways to engage all members of your community.

“The world will soon mark the 20th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform of Action, and the 15th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on the contribution of Women to Peace and Security.

“My pledge to these dedicated leaders was that their report, and the insights they offered, will not merely go on a shelf – they will provide a solid basis for the Justice Department to take robust action.  In the days ahead, they will guide our efforts to take practical steps to implement – and to institutionalize – the changes we need to gain the trust of survivors, to transform attit

“Arlena Lindley’s boyfriend Alonzo Turner beat her for months and murdered her child — so why was she sent to prison for 45 years? A BuzzFeed News Investigation.” Read more: http://www.buzzfeed.com/alexcampbell/how-the-law-turns-battered-women-into-criminals#1u8oxdk

When a young person runs away, the impact is felt throughout the entire community. Observed in November, National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM) offers an opportunity for us to explore and enhance our role in helping youth live happy and healthy lives.

“A powerful hashtag trended on Twitter on Thursday night as victims of sexual violence who had never reported their attacks spoke out in solidarity with women who were not believed when they came forward about their rapes.”