The Reality No One Should Have To Bear.

Every two minutes in the United States someone is sexually assaulted.

1 out of every 4 women and 1 out of every 6 men in America has been sexually assaulted.

90% of sexual assaults are committed by someone the survivor knows.

Please be aware that the exact definitions of “rape,” “sexual assault,” “sexual abuse” and similar terms differs by state, so for a precise legal definition, you should check the law in your state.

Based on the definitions used by the U.S. Justice Department here are some general guidelines.

Rape is forced sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal or oral penetration. Penetration may be by a body part or an object.
Rape victims may be forced through threats or physical means.
In about 8 out of 10 rapes, no weapon is used other than physical force. Anyone may be a victim of rape: women, men or children, straight or gay.
Sexual Assault is unwanted sexual contact that stops short of rape or attempted rape. This includes sexual touching and fondling.
– Harassment
– Exposing/Flashing
– Forcing a person to pose for sexual pictures
– Fondling
– Unwanted sexual touching
 
In the most extreme cases, sexual assault may involve force which may include but is not limited to:
– Use or display of a weapon
– Physical battering
– Immobilization of the victim
Sexual Assault usually involves psychological coercion and taking advantage of an individual who is under duress or incapacitated and, therefore, incapable of making a decision on his/her own (including under the influence of alcohol, drugs and/or prescription medications).
Sexual assault is a crime motivated by a need to control, humiliate and harm.
 Perpetrators use sexual assault as a weapon to hurt and dominate others.
Common Reactions to a Sexual Assault Include:
– Shock
– Numbness
– Loss of control
– Disorientation
– Helplessness
– Sense of vulnerability
– Fear
– Self-blame/guilt for “allowing” the crime to happen
– Feeling that these reactions are a sign of weakness

Get Support

The Embrace Your Cape Non Profit is not a crisis center and does not provide emergency services including but not limited to: crisis intervention, counseling, housing, legal or financial assistance.
If you or someone you know needs help, please contact:
Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network
(800) 656-4673
www.rainn.org
If you are in immediate danger, please call 911!