Central Michigan Life

Gov. Jennifer Granholm hopes April’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month will educate the public about the problem of sexual assaults and what can be done about it.

“It’s important to raise awareness about sexual assaults because for years sexual assault wasn’t talked about, it was very hushed up; it’s important to give hope to those who have been victims,” said Sarah Heuser, Education and Prevention Director at the Michigan Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment Board in a press release.

The organization helps create and recommend policy relating to domestic violence, provides information to the public about domestic violence.

An important part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month is teaching citizens how to get involved and be part of a solution. There are 29 sexual assault programs in Michigan, including one in Mount Pleasant.

The Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program is a program that provides victims with the help they need in a less traditional environment.

“Being believed is the first step for a victim, it’s absolutely imperative,” said Jackie Pingel, a St. Johns senior who works with Sexual Assault Peer Advocates.

According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, about six in 10 rape or sexual assault victims know the perpetrator.

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