MUSC Issues SAAM Proclamation
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is dedicated to ending sexual violence through increased public awareness, community education on prevention, and supporting those on the frontline helping survivors and their families. Now is the time for conversations about systemic change, the factors contributing to sexual violence, and the resources needed to address this public health crisis.
On Monday, April 1, 2024, Dr. Michael de Arellano officially proclaimed April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month at MUSC.
Key Statistics
- Every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted.
- 1 in 6 women has been a victim of attempted or completed rape.1 in 10 rape victims is male.
- Most victims are under 30 years old.
- In South Carolina (2022), 3,536 new survivors sought services from rape crisis centers (2,037 adults, 1,499 children).
- 92% of these survivors knew their offender.
- Only 12% of primary victims reported the incident to law enforcement.
2026 SAAM Calendar of Events
Join us this April for a series of events hosted by MUSC and community partners to raise awareness, support survivors, and challenge myths surrounding sexual violence.
2026 Themes
- National Theme: 25 Years Strong: Looking Back, Moving Forward — celebrating the 25th anniversary of SAAM.
- South Carolina Focus: The critical role of consent in prevention of sexual violence and the foundation of healthy relationships, led by the SC Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA).
Wear Teal Day
- Date: April 7, 2026
- Location: MUSC Campus Wide
- Details: Show your support by wearing teal. Ribbons will be available on campus
“What Were You Wearing?” Exhibit & Reception
- Date: April 17, 2026
- Time:
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Guest Speaker Presentation
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Networking Reception
- Location: North Charleston City Hall, 2500 City Hall Lane, North Charleston, SC
- Featured Speakers: Mary Simmerling, PhD; Denise Huskins Quinn, DPH; Aaron Quinn; Suzy Boylan, JD; and Jen Murphy.
- Description: An impactful installation that pairs survivor narratives with what they were wearing at the time of their assault. This powerful display aims to challenge victim-blaming myths.
- Registration: Register Here
City of North Charleston SAAM Proclamation
- Date: April 18, 2026
- Location: Keith Summey North Charleston Library, 3503 Rivers Ave., North Charleston, SC
- Events:
o 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Official Proclamation. Mayor Reginald L. “Reggie” Burgess will deliver the official SAAM proclamation, followed by remarks from exhibit curators and local victim advocacy organizations.
o 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Community Exhibit Viewing. A public opportunity to view the “What Were You Wearing?” exhibit and engage with survivor narratives.
Tri-County SPEAKS Community Vigil & Resource Fair
· Date: April 24, 2026
· Time: 5 PM – 8 PM (Vigil will begin at 7 PM)
· Location: Hampton Park Gazebo
- Details: Luminary vigil and community resource fair. This will be held for the final week of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. We will have various community partners, members, and organizations present. During the resource fair, organizations will engage with participants and the community to highlight the services and support they offer. The vigil will have guest speakers, and participants will have the opportunity to dedicate a lantern.
International Denim Day & SAAM Outreach Event
- Date: April 29, 2026
- Time: 11 AM – 1 PM
- Location: Greenway
- Collaborators: MUSC and Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S.
- Details: Join millions across the world by wearing jeans to support survivors and protest clothing myths surrounding sexual assault. And stop by our tables on the Greenway for awareness materials, campus community engagement, and outreach resources to conclude Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Resources
The following resources are available through MUSC and our partners. You can see a complete list on our Title IX page.
On-Campus Resources
Reporting
Employee Resources
Student Resources
Community Resources
Off-Campus Resources
