Beyond the numbers: Understanding sexual assault

At SASS Sexual Assault Safe Space, we believe that understanding the true scope of sexual assault is the first step towards healing and prevention. These statistics aren't meant to overwhelm, but to open doors—to support, to understanding, and to action. Join us as we shed light on the realities, challenge misconceptions, and build a safer community in Kentucky and beyond.

The undeniable reality: It's widespread and personal

The numbers reveal a stark reality: 1 in 5 women and 1 in 26 men in the U.S. experience completed or attempted rape in their lifetime. This widespread issue touches millions, with nearly half of women and over 1 in 6 men facing some form of contact sexual violence. Most survivors experience their first assault before age 25, often at a young age. Crucially, a large majority of sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows, challenging the common myth of stranger danger and emphasizing the importance of consent and power dynamics. For survivors: "I’m not the only one. What happened to me is real and recognized."

The unseen struggle: Underreporting and intersectional truths

While the statistics are staggering, they are only a partial view. Most sexual assaults are never reported to law enforcement due to fear, shame, distrust, and the potential for re-traumatization. This underreporting means official data doesn't fully capture the immense scale of the problem. Moreover, sexual violence disproportionately affects Indigenous, Black, LGBTQ+, and gender-diverse individuals, who often face higher prevalence rates than the national average. This highlights the urgent need for culturally competent, inclusive approaches to prevention and support. For community members: "This is happening more than I realized. Someone I love may have been affected."

Separating fact from fiction: Empowering understanding

Many damaging myths surround sexual assault, contributing to silence and blame. It's crucial to understand: sexual assault is widespread, not rare. Most perpetrators are known to the victim, not strangers. The majority of assaults are never reported due to fear and stigma, and lack of reporting does not negate harm. Consent must be clear and enthusiastic; silence, freezing, or inability to resist is not consent. False reports are rare, and victim-blaming for clothing, alcohol, or behavior is never acceptable – assault is caused by the assailant's choice. Furthermore, men, nonbinary, and transgender individuals are also survivors, often facing higher rates and increased stigma. At SASS, we believe correcting these myths supports survivors, reduces stigma, and creates safer communities. We are here to offer compassion, safety, and healing. Whether you choose to reach out for help, share information, or support our mission, you are not powerless.