Palm Beach County Recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month with Public Displays and Community Events

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time dedicated to raise public awareness about sexual violence and support survivors. The county's Public Safety Department Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center invites the community to stand with survivors by participating in awareness events throughout the month.

A Field of Flags will be displayed at two locations. One is in front of the county's Historic Courthouse in West Palm Beach, and another is at the Pahokee Library. The flags symbolize the 596 adult, teen and child survivors served by the county's Public Safety Department Victim Services in 2024. Each flag represents a life affected by sexual violence. All are welcome to view the flags and take a moment to honor these survivors and the many others who have not come forward.

Additionally, the county's Historic Courthouse and Four Points Building (at 50 S. Military Trail) will be illuminated in teal throughout April.

"Unfortunately, these crimes are a lot more common than people think they are. This month, we invite the community to take a stand, educate themselves and show their support," s aid Public Safety Department Victim Services Division Director Nicole Bishop.

SAAM activities will close with Healing through the Arts: A Community Art Event on Saturday, April 26, from 3 to 5 p.m., at the Compass Community Center, 201 North Dixie Highway, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460.

Together, a culture that believes and supports survivors can be created, working toward a future free from sexual violence. If someone needs support, call the county's Public Safety Department Victim Services 24/7 Helpline at 561-833-7273.

For more information about SAAM events and resources available to survivors, please contact Public Safety Department Victim Services Outreach Coordinator Emily Blaylock at EBlaylock@pbc.gov.

For more information on sexual assault and how to help, visit www.NSVRC.org.