Everyone deserves spaces that are safe and free from violence. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which is an occasion to recognize the role we all play in creating safer, supportive spaces for all members of our community. 

In the fall of last year, the Province of Nova Scotia took a significant step by passing legislation that declared gender-based violence an epidemic. This legislative action underscores the severity and urgency of addressing these issues head-on. 

Sexualized violence, and all forms of gender-based violence, are unfortunately commonplace. These are issues that impact many people in our lives and our communities.  

"Bearing witness to these truths can be challenging. However, it also presents a powerful and hopeful opportunity for the Acadia community to unite and deepen its commitment to creating spaces free of sexualized violence, sexual harassment, and all forms of gender-based violence. We are steadfast in our efforts to support survivors and to foster an atmosphere of respect and care," says President Dr. Jeff Hennessy. “Together, we can create a safer and more inclusive Acadia, where everyone feels valued and protected." 

As the newly appointed Director of Human Rights and Human Rights Education, Allison Smith, plays a crucial role in our community. She is responsible for helping survivors access support and addressing matters under our Sexualized Violence Policy. Allison regularly provides training and education on consent, building safer spaces, and supporting survivors of gender-based harm. 

Allison shares: “A valuable resource for understanding how to respond to sexual violence disclosures with knowledge and compassion is the We Believe You: A guide to responding to sexual violence disclosures with knowledge and compassion. This guide is available to all members of the Acadia community and aims to foster an understanding of how to respond to disclosures with care and how to direct survivors to support resources”. 

To mark Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Allison partnered with the Vaughan Memorial Library to hold an anonymous letter-writing campaign where members of our Acadia community were invited to write letters of support and care for survivors of sexualized violence. Here are a few excerpts from the letters submitted: 

• “To survivors at Acadia: You deserve to feel safe, supported, and understood. We believe you. No matter how anyone has made you feel, what happened is not your fault. Your strength is beautiful, and you are not alone.” 

• “I know it's true. And you are surviving. More than survive, you will thrive. There is so much light in the world, don't let the darkness overcome. If I can do it, you can do it too!” 

• “No matter where you are on your journey, your experiences matter, and your feelings are valid. Healing looks different for everyone, and there is no 'right' way to move forward. Please be gentle with yourself and know that there are people who care about you, who believe in you, and who stand with you. You deserve kindness, love, and peace. Take it one day at a time, and remember: you are never alone in this.” 

These heartfelt messages give us hope for a broader community that continues to be built on support, inclusion, care, and community.   

The display at the Vaughan Memorial Library, showcasing these letters and other supportive resources, will continue to be on display until the end of the month