Sexual violence is an all too common serious societal and public health concern with many long-lasting societal and interpersonal impacts. Sexual violence does not discriminate and affects all persons of all backgrounds; however, statistics gathered indicate that girls and women, specifically children, teens and young adults are most likely to report having been victims or survivors of sexual violence. National estimates published by the National Sexual Violence Research Center indicate that nearly 1 in 5 girls and women report having been a victim of a sexual assault. These numbers are not indicative of countless others who are unable or coerced into not reporting their assaults for assorted reasons.
Although extensive, sexual violence is preventable. Washington State has an opportunity to be a national leader in the field of prevention by voting to approve Referendum 90. If approved, R-90 will uphold the new state law requiring all public schools to teach age-appropriate, inclusive, comprehensive sexual health education to K-12 students. These comprehensive strengths-based education models will aid in addressing and correcting the myths, attitudes, beliefs, perceptions and skills that contribute to sexual violence in our community while further empowering and educating our youth. Through the efforts of education, skill building, and curriculum infusion, bystander intervention and healthy norms will be promoted and supported.
As a concerned community member, former sexual assault victim advocate, social worker and mother, I will vote to approve R-90 this November. I hope you will join me in creating a safer, healthier community for our children.
Alicia Coragiulo
Marysville
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