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Interpersonal Violence: Sexual Violence

This Guide contains a variety of resources meant to help people better recognize interpersonal violence when it is happening, and how to find help out of these types of situations.

General Resources

Time Sensitive Information for Survivors

This guide breaks down what time sensitive steps survivors can take after a sexual assault.
 

The Importance of DNA in Sexual Assault Cases

RAINN offers an explanation of the importance of DNA in the investigation of sexual assault cases
 

What Is a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam?

This resource from RAINN explains what a rape kit is and what happens when one is done.
 

Laws in Your State

"From the legal definition of rape to the statute of limitation for a particular sex crime, where you live makes a difference. Here's a guide to the laws in your state." Rainn.org

Effects of Sexual Violence

"Sexual violence can have psychological, emotional, and physical effects on a survivor. These effects aren’t always easy to deal with, but with the right help and support they can be managed. Learning more can help you find the best form of care to begin the healing process." Rainn.org

Reclaiming My Eroticism After Sexual Assault

A first person account of becoming comfortable in their body again after being sexually assaulted.
 

10 Tips For Visiting The Gynecologist As a Survivor of Childhood Sexual Abuse

"I realized, I have never read an advice post for childhood sexual abuse survivors taking the trip to the (for me: dreaded) gyno.  Here is what worked for me (and matching gifs of cute animals doing things because animals are cute like you and make me feel relaxed/better when I read heavy stuff.)" Sage Martin

Warning Signs for College-Age Adults

"Whether you are a parent, professor, administrator, student, coworker, or friend—you can make a difference in someone’s life by noticing the warning signs of sexual assault and abusive relationships. Sexual violence, like many other crimes, can occur on college campuses and at locations frequented by college students." Rainn.org
 

7 Ways NOT to React When Your Friend Is Sexually Assaulted

A guide to what you should and shouldn't do or say when you find out a friend has been sexually assaulted.
 

Responding With RAHMA

"Respond by Listening
 Affirm & Believe
 Honor Culture, Religious Context and Values
 Maintain Privacy
 Assist with Providing Resources and Information" Heartwomenandgirls.org
 

5 Things You Can Do Today

PDF containing a list of things you can do to support survivors and prevent assault.
 

Here are 9 Ways To Be A Good Ally To Sexual Assault Survivors

Things you can do to be a good ally to sexual assault survivors.

Community Specific Resources

Facts About Sexual Violence Within Muslim Communities 

"People, communities, and systems use many techniques to silence and blame victims, while protecting perpetrators of sexual violence (i.e. harassment, abuse, and assault). While victim blaming occurs across all cultural and religious communities, it’s important to explore and understand the nuances that show up in specific communities. This document explores how religious and cultural tradition can be misused in Muslim communities to silence victims and protect the perpetrator." Heartwomenandgirls.org