Sexual violence is any sexual contact forced upon a person without his or her consent. It does not have to involve physical force. It may involve a threat of force, coercion or sexual blackmail.
Sexual violence can happen to anyone, at any time, anywhere.
The reality is that anyone can be assaulted regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, age or social and economic levels. The one common bond they all share is that they did not ask to become a victim of violence. He or she may be a family member, a friend, a lover, or an acquaintance. Helpful Guidelines for Assisting a Sexual Assault Survivor Believe your friend. Validate the significance of the event.