Sexual assault is not just a woman’s issue; it impacts both men and women.
Men and women are both victims of sexual assault. As a man, it is likely that you will know someone who is a survivor of sexual assault: a friend, family member, and/or girlfriend.
- Do not remain silent, do not look the other way. Become an “active bystander”, confront friends who are becoming disrespectful or abusive.
- Women often turn to male friends for support and understanding after an assault. Your support can aid their recovery.
- Although most survivors are female, approximately 5% of survivors are male. Men are assaulted by other men, and sometimes by women. It is important that male survivors seek services and talk with someone about what has happened.
- For positive change to occur, it is critical for men to become involved as part of the solution, rather than continuing to be viewed as “the problem”. Men become a part of the solution by educating themselves on the issue, confronting negative behavior of friends, and challenging behaviors and attitudes that may lead to sexual assault.
- Interrupt actions, comments or jokes that support rape culture.