Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Acts of sexual violence affect women, men, and children throughout America every day. In recognition of the magnitude of this problem, President Obama declared April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

The Office of Justice Programs plays a central role in the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) efforts to combat sexual assault, with its Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) in particular, providing vital services for victims of sexual violence.

On April 12, 2010, Attorney General Eric Holder and other department officials sponsored an event to honor sexual assault victims and to mark the lessons learned from the successes of the professionals who serve them.

"During a career spent as a prosecutor, a judge, and a United States Attorney, I have seen the effects of sexual violence – in the courtroom and far beyond," Attorney General Eric Holder said during the event. "I understand how these crimes can devastate lives, families, and communities. But I’ve never been more hopeful about our ability to make meaningful progress in ending sexual assault."

President Obama’s most recent budget calls for increased funding to address sexual assault, including $100 million in funds administered by OVC that would be set aside to address violence against women, Attorney General Holder said. The budget also requests an increase of nearly $30 million for the Office on Violence Against Women, doubling the funding for its Sexual Assault Services Program.

With the support of the President, and the commitment of concerned partners throughout the country, DOJ is combating sexual violence by raising public awareness, holding offenders accountable, expanding support for victims, and ultimately healing lives.