VAWnet News Blog

Sexual assaults may put the victim at risk for contracting HIV. There is a medication available that acts as a prophylaxis after potential exposure to the virus. This medication is commonly referred to as nPEP (Nonoccupational Postexposure Prophylaxis). While this medication is available, it is not always accessible to every victim.

“Montana judge gives a former teacher 30 days in jail for the rape of a 14-year-old student, and then calls the victim ‘older than her chronological age.'” Read more: http://www.latimes.com/nation/la-na-montana-judge-20130829,0,1463530.story

“In a message posted to its website, Twitter says it is introducing a one-click button to report abuse and updating its rules to clarify that it will not tolerate abusive behavior.”

Since the release of new reports on sexual violence in the military, there have been lots of questions about how to address sexual violence within such a large system. First, note that rape culture exists in every institution, and this problem is not unique to the military.

“Recent congressional hearings featured generals promising change and outlining programs created to fix the issues, but those in this military community say that’s not enough to solve the problem.”

Reaching Out Advocates working to end domestic and sexual violence have long recognized the importance of relationships. Reaching out and working with individuals, groups, and systems has been a hallmark of our social change efforts. As we move forward, we strive to enhance our programs’ accessibility, diversity, and service to traditionally marginalized communities.