ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Team APG will host several events promoting prevention and awareness starting with the April 2 Day of Action. The full morning of events gets off to an early start with a 6:30 a.m. 5K Run/Walk starting from Fanshaw Field. After the walk, all are invited to view and sign the "Pledge to Intervene-Act-Motivate" (about 7:30 a.m.) and then help form the Team APG "Human Ribbon."
The official SAAM kickoff ceremony at the Post Theater follows at 10 a.m.
All events focus on promoting prevention and raising awareness according to 1st Lt. Raisa Velez, the Garrison's Sexual Harassment and Rape Prevention (SHARP) victim advocate. Velez said that all APG service members, civilians, contractors and Family members are encouraged to participate in the kickoff events.
"We're asking that people wear or bring a teal or like-colored shirt [the official SAAM color) to wear for the human ribbon," she said, "and that they stay for the official kickoff at the Post Theater."
The following day, April 3, the Main Post Chapel hosts a breakfast forum/discussion themed, "It's Time to Talk About It," with counselors, social workers, and members of the Army Substance Abuse Program leading discussions about coping mechanisms, communication techniques and the link between alcohol and drug use and sexual assault.
"These will be important and relevant information-sharing discussions that could one day aid you in helping a friend or family member," Velez said. "Everyone can learn from these events."
Other events throughout April include:
April 4: Screening of "The Invisible War" at the Post Theater, 1 p.m.
April 10: Installation SHARP Training at the Post Theater, 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
April 16: Screening of "The Invisible War" at Bldg., E2800, APG South (Edgewood), 1 p.m.
April 18: "Sex Signals" (Improv Show). Seating is limited; tickets distributed at MWR ticket booth, 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Note: Mature audiences only. This show contains adult language and themes related to sexual activity and relationships that may be offensive to some.
April 23: Self Defense Class & Empowerment Fair, Main Post Chapel, noon to 1:30 p.m.
April 24: Honor Denim Day
For more information, contact 1st Lt. Raisa Velez, Garrison SHARP victim advocate, at 410-306-2813, raisa.v.velez.mil@mail.mil.ual
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