'I Pledge' Campaign kicks off at Fort Knox Main Post Exchange

FORT KNOX, Ky. – Installation leaders and community members gathered April 14 to stand together against sexual assault.

The “I Pledge” Campaign kicked off at the Fort Knox main Exchange in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month with a signature signing ceremony. This was the first of three events planned in support of the 2021 theme: “protecting our people protects our mission.”

“Everybody is part of prevention,” said sexual assault response coordinator Ella Foley. “Everybody has to make sure we’re creating a culture to eliminate sexual harassment and sexual assault in the community.”

Foley said she hoped the pledge tables, which will be set up again April 21 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will unify the military community in a stand against sexual harassment and assault.

“Anybody can be a victim,” she said.

Sexual harassment and assault often happens within people’s own communities, according to Foley, who explained that’s why she works hard to make the pledge tables a success — to prevent more people from becoming victims.

“I encourage people to say, ‘Yes!’” said Foley, “’I want to be part of that revolution.’”

Those who visit the pledge table will find giveaway items promoting the campaign and information about the resources available, including the Department of Defense Safe Helpline number.

Pledge tables will be set up again April 21 and 28.

In addition to pledging, participants can also take part in Denim Day April 28. Foley explained that day is recognized to honor an Italian sexual assault victim whose attacker’s rape conviction was overturned. The court claimed that by wearing tight jeans, she must have given him consent.

“I’m inviting everybody to wear jeans that day to show solidarity for our victims and survivors of sexual assault,” said Foley.

Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevent Month runs throughout April, though Foley says she hopes the message will carry on throughout the year.

To report sexual assault, call the DOD Safe Helpline at 877-995-5247 or visit safehelpline.org.