Connect, respect, prevent sexual violence

Sexual Assault Awareness Month kicks off on Ramstein April 2 and will continue throughout the month of April.

Since 2001, April has been designated as SAAM and the base Sexual Assault Program coordinator will start this year with multiple events. This year’s theme will be “It’s time … to talk about it! Connect. Respect. Prevent Sexual Violence.”

Commanders will also help with the start of the campaign by handing out information and promotional items as people come on base, and first sergeants will hand out information to dorm residents as they leave for work and at the dining facility from 7 to 8 a.m.

The installation sexual assault response coordinator complies with congressional and Department of Defense program mandates. They are responsible for developing, implementing and managing prevention and support programs and activities for sexual assault prevention and response and other areas of interpersonal violence and victim needs, as directed by the wing commander. 

“The SARC can be a great resource but victims of sexual assault have to take the initial step in letting me know you need help,” said Capt. Scott Simoneaux, KMC SARC.

The SARC is responsible for prevention education and training for all personnel on base.  They also develop, implement and maintain an installation victim-support system to address broad spectrums of related issues and intervention needs. 

“SAAM gives people better insight into how to prevent and deal with sexual assault. Whether it’s for personal use or just becoming a well-rounded wingman, this information is important to know. It could (potentially) save a life,” said Senior Airman Michelle DeMers, SARC victim advocate.

The KMC offers several events throughout the month to help raise awareness, including a 10K Volksmarch, which takes place at 2 p.m. April 27 at the Southside Gym.

Along with the awareness march, there are various activities planned throughout the month, including:
March 26 — Sex Signals, 8 a.m., 11 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Hercules Theater.
April 2 — Information hand-outs, 7 to 8 a.m. at the west gate, dorms and DFACs.
April 2 to 13 — Informational booths, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the KMCC.
April 9 to 13 — Self defense classes, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Monday to Friday, and 6 p.m. Thursdays at the Ramstein Community Center.
April 20 and 21 — Night of AADD for victim advocates.