WASHINGTON –
April is designated as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. Preventing and responding to sexual assault remains a fight that demands our attention every day. Sexual assault and sexual harassment erode the fabric of our National Guard, breaking the sacred trust of our Nation, Service Members, Civilians, and their families.
Trust is key to building an environment of prevention. Leaders at all levels must invest in the development of individual character and the promotion of cohesive and inclusive teams within our organization. Commitment to and living our National Guard core values exemplifies the inherent responsibilities of discipline we vowed to uphold.
This year’s National Guard Bureau theme, “Forging Forward with Change,” the Army’s theme, “Change Through Unity: Empower. Protect. Prevent.” and DoD SAPRO and Air Force’s theme, “STEP FORWARD. Prevent. Report. Advocate.” highlight the important work that has been accomplished since the 90-day Independent Review Commission was ordered by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III. It also emphasizes the work that is still being done to cultivate a culture in which everyone plays an active role in keeping one another safe and taking action when we see warning signs or risk factors. The National Guard continues to take bold actions on victim care and support, accountability, prevention, and climate and culture so that we can eradicate sexual assault and sexual harassment once and for all.
We know trust matters, and that is why we remain National Guard Strong!
We hereby proclaim that April 2024 shall be declared Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month across the National Guard. To read the signed proclamation visit here.