The City of Barstow held a city council meeting on Monday, April 3rd, 2023, where they had the honor of presenting a proclamation to Partners Against Violence for Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The City of Barstow is committed to promoting safety, respect, and consent, and recognizes that sexual violence affects individuals and communities of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. They are encouraging everyone to join them in raising awareness and taking action towards creating a safer and more equitable future for all. Additionally, the city is recognizing Wear Teal Tuesday as a way to show support for survivors of sexual assault and raise awareness about consent and respect. The city stands with survivors and advocates in promoting safety, healing, and empowerment, and aims to work towards a world free from sexual violence.

SAAM is a national initiative in the United States that occurs annually in April to increase public awareness of sexual violence and educate communities on ways to prevent it. This year's SAAM theme is "We Can Build Safe Online Spaces," highlighting the importance of creating safer digital spaces for survivors and advocates. Throughout the month, various events and campaigns will occur to promote education and awareness, including the annual Denim Day. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to participate in SAAM by promoting resources and taking steps to prevent sexual violence.

The history of SAAM goes back much further than its official declaration 22 years ago. Movements for social change and equality began to gain traction in the 1940s and 50s with the civil rights era. Advocates, particularly Black women and women of color, began to challenge the status quo and championed efforts to prevent sexual assault. Wide social activism around the issue of sexual assault continued into the 1970s, bringing with it support for survivors and heightened awareness. The roots of SAAM run deep, and it's important to remember the work of those who came before us.