The Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART) is recognizing April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, emphasizing education, prevention and support for victims across Winn Parish.

According to information provided by DART, sexual violence affects individuals of all genders, ages and backgrounds and includes any unwanted sexual contact or behavior carried out without consent. This can involve force, threats, manipulation or coercion.

The organization outlines multiple forms of sexual violence, including sexual assault, harassment, exploitation, trafficking and nonconsensual image sharing. Other behaviors, such as unwanted touching, public exposure and coercive acts, are also included under this definition.

DART officials note that social and cultural factors can contribute to sexual violence, including harmful norms, misuse of power and silence surrounding abuse. Prevention, they emphasize, requires community involvement at all levels — from homes and schools to workplaces and faith-based settings.

Consent remains a key component in preventing sexual violence. It must be freely given, informed and can be withdrawn at any time. DART stresses that consent is an ongoing dialogue, not a one-time agreement.

Statistics included in the report highlight the widespread impact of sexual violence. National data shows that nearly one in five women and one in 71 men in the United States have experienced rape or attempted rape. Additional data indicates varying rates among different demographic groups.

The report also notes that victims often know their attacker. Among adolescents who have been sexually assaulted, approximately 74% were harmed by someone they knew, while about 21% of cases involved a family member.

DART emphasizes that victims are never at fault. Factors such as clothing, behavior or alcohol consumption do not justify assault, and responsibility lies solely with the perpetrator.

Sexual violence is also widely underreported. Common reasons include fear of not being believed, retaliation, shame, outside pressure and distrust of law enforcement.

The organization stresses that the impact of sexual violence extends beyond individual survivors and affects entire communities.

Individuals seeking assistance are encouraged to contact the Winn Parish DART office at 301 West Main Street in Winnfield or call 318-648-0559 to connect with a local advocate.