Seeing Teal: Laying the Foundation for Prevention This SAAM

Meta Description: Today, April 1st, we wear teal for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Burgandy Holiday, LCSW, of Be True Counseling, emphasizes how education and awareness are the cornerstones of preventing sexual assault and introduces the NSVRC's 2025 PSA.

Today, the color teal takes center stage. It’s Wear Teal Day, a visual kickoff to Sexual Assault Awareness Month. For many, it’s a simple gesture, a splash of color in our day. For me, as a therapist at Be True Counseling, it signifies the start of an important conversation: how education and awareness are the very foundation upon which we build prevention.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) isn't just about acknowledging a difficult reality; it's about actively working towards a future free from sexual violence. And that work begins with understanding. By increasing awareness, we empower individuals to recognize harmful behaviors, understand the importance of consent, and know where to seek help – both for themselves and for others.

Across my career, I have witnessed the profound impact of knowledge. When we understand the complexities surrounding sexual assault, we move beyond victim-blaming narratives and begin to address the systemic issues that allow such violence to persist. Education helps us challenge harmful societal norms and fosters a culture of respect and accountability.

This year, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) has released a powerful new Public Service Announcement (PSA) to mark SAAM 2025. This video serves as a vital tool in sparking conversations and deepening our understanding of sexual assault. I encourage you to take a few moments to watch it here. The PSA offers valuable insights and underscores the importance of community involvement in prevention efforts.

Wearing teal today isn't just a passive act of recognition; it's an active declaration that you believe education and awareness are crucial in preventing sexual assault. It's a visible commitment to learning more, to having open and honest conversations, and to fostering a community where safety and respect are paramount.

Join us today by wearing teal and by taking the time to watch and share the NSVRC's PSA. Let's use this visual symbol and these educational resources to lay a strong foundation for prevention throughout Sexual Assault Awareness Month and beyond.

If the themes of today resonate deeply within you, if you find yourself grappling with the impact of sexual assault, please know that you don't have to navigate this alone. At Be True Counseling, we offer a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences, to untangle the emotional complexities, and to rediscover your strength.

#WearTealDay #SAAM2025 #SexualAssaultAwarenessMonth #BeTrueCounseling #PhiladelphiaTherapy #SupportSurvivors #EndSexualViolence #TraumaInformedCare #PreventionEducation