Sexual Assault Awareness Month Proclamation

Published on April 01, 2026

WHEREAS, Sexual Assault Awareness Month calls attention to the fact that sexual violence is widespread and impacts every person in our community; and

WHEREAS, Sexual Assault Awareness Month aims to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it; and

WHEREAS, We know that systems of oppression such as racism, sexism and classism contribute to higher rates of sexual harassment, assault and abuse; and

WHEREAS, Sexual violence impacts millions of people each year, but it can be prevented. Preventing sexual violence requires the collective voice and power of individuals, families, institutions and systems – adding a valuable and powerful component to transforming our community; and

WHEREAS, New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers calls on all individuals, organizations and institutions to change the systems surrounding us to build equity and prevent sexual violence within our community.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SHAUNDEL WASHINGTON-SPIVEY, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF LA CROSSE, declare April 2026 as “Sexual Assault Awareness Month” in the City of La Crosse and encourage all in our community to honor all victims and survivors of sexual violence.

Dated on this 1st day of April, Two Thousand Twenty-Six.