April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The mission of SAAM is to increase public understanding of sexual assault and educate communities on how to prevent it. We know that a single month isn’t enough to address the significant and widespread problem of sexual assault. However, April holds space for the attention, prevention efforts, and survivor support we hope to strengthen and expand throughout the year.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2023 Events
All Month
Teal Chair Project
Various Local Businesses
The Teal Chair Project serves as a reminder that no one has to go through the aftermath of sexual violence alone. The chairs are intended to also remind us that sexual violence happens right here in McLean County. Stop by a participating local business to show your support!
April 17
The Clothesline Project
9 am - 2 pm | Illinois State University
The Clothesline Project is a visual display bearing witness to violence against individuals. During the public display, a clothesline is hung with shirts decorated to represent an individual's experience, made by the survivor or a loved one.
April 29
Final Steps Awareness Walk
10 am - 12 pm | Miller Park
Join us in supporting survivors and Sexual Assault Awareness Month with a peaceful and accessible walk around the pond at Miller Park. Tables will be stationed along the route to provide information about Stepping Stones, kid's games and a therapeutic art activity.
April 07
The Clothesline Project
5-8 pm | McLean County Museum of History
The Clothesline Project is a visual display bearing witness to violence against individuals. During the public display, a clothesline is hung with shirts decorated to represent an individual's experience, made by the survivor or a loved one.
April 08
Survivor Love Letter
10 am - 2 pm | Illinois Art Station
Survivor Love Letter is a public art exhibition displaying letters of love, support, and solidarity with survivors of sexual violence. IAS visitors can create chalk-dipped stationary for community members, or themselves, to write their love letters on.
April 12
Support Table
10 am - 2 pm | IWU Student Center
YWCA Stepping Stones will be in attendance to raise awareness of our services among college students. Stop by the support table to learn about our services, meet our staff and show your support for survivors of sexual assault.
April 10 - 14
The Clothesline Project
Heartland Community College
The Clothesline Project is a visual display bearing witness to violence against individuals. During the public display, a clothesline is hung with shirts decorated to represent an individual's experience, made by the survivor or a loved one.
April 15
The Clothesline Project
10 am - 4 pm | Uptown Normal
The Clothesline Project is a visual display bearing witness to violence against individuals. During the public display, a clothesline is hung with shirts decorated to represent an individual's experience, made by the survivor or a loved one.