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As we are in the midst of LGBTQ Pride Month, chances are your timelines and dashboards are already filled with queer-themed films, shows, and, of course, literature. While there are some must-read classics (Rubyfruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown, Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin, and so on) here is a list of LGBTQ+ reads that you may be unfamiliar with but will tug on your heartstrings all the same. 

Today is recognized internationally as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, and is an opportunity to highlight the vulnerability to sexual violence and other forms of abuse that so many elderly persons experience. Below is a statement from the National Center on Elder Abuse that communicates the importance of this day, and after that is a brief list of links to resources on Elder Abuse from the NSVRC and the Department of Justice.

Long runs outside, walking the dog, yoga, singing, journaling or any number of self-care activities offer a much needed break from life’s stressors. Most people are in need of a little self-care. Our mental health is just as important as our physical health as it's a critical part of our overall wellbeing. Survivors, those who work in the field, and those close to these individuals, can benefit greatly from a variety of resources that can help our overall mental health.

Educators fill a unique role in caring for and nurturing students, which provides a powerful opportunity to minimize the impact of trauma on a child’s life and help foster resiliency.

In order to capture the scope of the Sexual Assault Awareness Month campaign, we at NSVRC wanted to shine one final spotlight on the events, social media activism, and high-profile media engagement that made this year’s SAAM so successful.

This year, NSVRC is celebrating its 17th year coordinating the national campaign for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Yet this annual commemoration of SAAM during April to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it goes back decades. Not only does the history of SAAM date back long before NSVRC was founded, but activists and survivors advocating for change at the grassroots and community level have roots reaching as far back as the Civil Rights Era.

Roots of a Movement

The Cosby verdict is a long-awaited and symbolic victory for many survivors of sexual violence.  It brings hope that justice can be served when victims are finally ready to enter the court system, that it is possible for the truth to be heard, even if it is years after the assault. 

Originally posted at Medium.com on April 26, 2018

By Molly Boeder Harris, The Breathe Network

“The doors to the world of the wild self are few but precious. If you have a deep scar, that is a door.” — Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés

Fear limits our ability as sexual and domestic violence prevention advocates to address the roots of violence. It’s the fear of talking about racial inequity – saying the wrong thing or being called racist – and also fear of retaliation for wanting to talk about it. In turn, we can recreate these same inequities within organizations. This conversation is for everyone – we all need to work from the places we have privilege.

Not only is April the time that we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month, but it is also the month where we can expect torrents of rain. As I stare out the window wishing for the buckets of rain pouring down from the sky to cease immediately, I find comfort in reading about individuals who embraced their own voices to bravely stand up for themselves and others. The beauty that comes through in their words makes the dreariness outside a little more bearable.