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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | March 5, 2024 10:17 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Christine M. Tartaglione and Sen. Camera Bartolotta, Sen. Amanda M. Cappelletti, Sen. Judith L. Schwank, Sen. Maria Collett, Sen. Carolyn T. Comitta, Sen. Lindsey M. Williams, Sen. Katie J. Muth, Sen. Lisa M. Boscola |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Sexual Assault Awareness Month |
| In the near future, we plan to introduce a resolution declaring April 2024 as “Sexual Assault Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. Sexual violence has continued to be a serious social and public health issue in the United States. Everyday across the United States, thousands of people are affected by rape and sexual assault regardless of their demographic background. These experiences can be devastating for the survivor, as well as the survivor’s family and friends. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 71 men in the United States are victims of rape. Additionally, over 53% of women and over 29% of men report experiencing contact sexual violence. Furthermore, members of the LGBTQIA+ community are much more likely to report having been sexually assaulted during their lifetime than heterosexual, cisgender individuals. For example, 47% of transgender people report having been sexually assaulted at some point in their lives. And while no true cost can be assigned to the emotional and psychological toll of sexual violence, the estimated lifetime cost of rape is $122,461 per victim including legal and medical costs and lost productivity. The NSVRC have designated the theme for 2024 as Building Connected Communities because a strong community creates a sense of belonging and reminds us of how our beliefs, choices, and actions impact one another. At the center of Building Connected Communities is ensuring our communities are safe, inclusive, and equitable. Racism, sexism, classism, homophobia, ageism, ableism, and other forms of oppression contribute to higher rates of sexual harassment, assault, and abuse. We must address all abuses of power to prevent sexual violence -- in our relationships, communities, and society. Furthermore, it is imperative that we recognize the strength, courage, and challenges faced by victims and survivors of sexual violence. Please join us in co-sponsoring this important resolution to bring light to an issue that continues to affect so many people throughout the country. |
Introduced as SR256
Memo Updated: March 5, 2024 10:19 AM