April is nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, but The Center for Empowerment and Education (CEE) remains committed to supporting survivors every day of the year. Sexual violence affects entire communities, and every survivor deserves compassion, respect, and unwavering support.

In its 11-town service region, the CEE provides critical services to hundreds of individuals impacted by sexual violence annually. Since July 2024, the organization has already supported nearly 200 survivors. Their demographics demonstrate that sexual violence crosses all boundaries: 8 percent were children, 40 percent were white, 83 percent were female, 7 percent identified as LGBTQ+, 41 percent were Latina/e/x, 9 percent were college students, and nearly 50 percent had a disability. These statistics highlight that sexual violence can affect anyone.

Sexual violence can take many forms—rape, child sexual abuse, image-based abuse, and more. Contrary to the depictions often seen in media, most assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, such as a family member, partner, friend, coworker, or acquaintance. The trauma caused by sexual violence often results in long-term emotional and physical health challenges, including anxiety, depression, substance use, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Although progress has been made in raising awareness, many survivors continue to face disbelief, shame, and blame. The CEE emphasizes the importance of communities standing with survivors, believing them, and working together to hold perpetrators accountable. Every individual has a role to play in creating a culture where survivors are believed and supported, and where sexual violence is not tolerated.

Coming forward after an assault is an act of extraordinary courage. Survivors have the right to choose their own path toward healing. Reporting may not guarantee traditional justice, and justice looks different for everyone. Survivors are entitled to seek medical care with or without involving law enforcement, and they can request a forensic evidence collection kit at a hospital within 120 hours of an assault—regardless of whether they have changed clothes or bathed. The exam and kit are provided at no cost to the survivor. Connecticut hospitals are required to contact a local rape crisis center when a survivor seeks medical care, ensuring that an advocate is present to explain survivors’ rights, provide emotional support, and connect them with additional resources. So far this year, CEE advocates have already accompanied more than two dozen survivors during this critical process.

Every survivor’s healing journey is deeply personal. For some, it may involve counseling; for others, it may include advocacy, activism, legal action, or creative expression. There is no single right way to heal—only the survivor’s own path.

By standing together, communities can foster a future where survivors are met with dignity, services are accessible to all, and prevention efforts create lasting change. Ending sexual violence requires collective action—and it begins with listening, believing, and supporting those who have experienced harm.

Anyone impacted by sexual violence is encouraged to reach out for support. The CEE offers free, confidential services 24/7, 365 days a year. Whether the assault occurred hours ago or decades ago, help is always available.

24/7 Sexual Assault Hotline: 203-731-5204.