Chicago Marks 25 Years of Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Advocates highlight ongoing challenges and call for greater support for survivors

Apr. 19, 2026 at 6:39pm

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph in warm tones depicting a blurred, intimate scene of two people embracing, conveying a sense of comfort and support.The annual observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month aims to provide comfort and support for survivors while driving progress in addressing the complex issue of sexual violence.Chicago Today

Chicago is recognizing the 25th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, an observance that seeks to bring attention to the prevalence and impact of sexual violence. According to statistics, more than 45% of women and 16% of men across the United States have experienced sexual violence at some point in their lives. Workplace sexual harassment also remains a significant concern, affecting one in three women. Rachel Hines, the associate clinical director at the YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago, discusses the complex dynamics often involved in these situations and the ways technology is changing how people are targeted.

Why it matters

The recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an important step in addressing the widespread issue of sexual violence and supporting survivors. By highlighting the statistics and the challenges survivors face, the observance aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage more people to seek help and report incidents.

The details

The YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago plays a vital role in supporting survivors of sexual assault through its services and programs. Rachel Hines, the associate clinical director, notes that in many cases, the perpetrator is someone known to the victim, which can create complex dynamics. She also discusses how technology is being used to target people, including the emergence of 'rape academy' websites and the use of AI to create fake pornography.

  • Sexual Assault Awareness Month has been recognized nationally for 25 years, since its inception in 2001.

The players

Rachel Hines

The associate clinical director at the YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago, who supports survivors of sexual assault through the organization's work.

Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault

An organization that provides statistics on the prevalence of sexual violence in the United States.

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What they’re saying

“Statistically, it's more likely to be someone you know. Like around 60-to-80% it's more likely to be someone you know. I've been doing this work for 16 years, in all of those 16 years I can only think of a handful of cases where it's been someone that the survivor didn't know.”

— Rachel Hines, Associate Clinical Director, YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago

“Kids are being targeted in online game forums and chats. Ex-romantic partners are releasing intimate photos and videos of their partners. There's been trends of folks taking people's videos or photos, altering them creating fake pornography. This is also something that has been targeting children as well.”

— Rachel Hines, Associate Clinical Director, YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago

What’s next

The Rape Crisis Hotline (888-293-2080) and the Illinois domestic violence hotline (1-877-863-6338) are available for survivors seeking help. The YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary, also provides support and resources.

The takeaway

Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges and impact of sexual violence in our communities. By highlighting the statistics, the complex dynamics involved, and the ways technology is being misused, the observance aims to reduce stigma, encourage reporting, and drive greater support for survivors.