How can communities work to create safer spaces for all?
Communities can create norms that govern how they operate and how people are supposed to behave. These norms can be healthy (supporting survivors and combatting oppression) or unhealthy (silence and shame around sexual violence).
As a community member, you can play a role in creating safety and encouraging respectful norms.

‘GO’ AND EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE
The best leaders are full-time learners. We can educate ourselves about how sexual violence intersects with all areas of our life. NJCASA’s fact sheet on sexual violence is a good starting place to get some quick facts and the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) has an infographic covering sexual violence nationwide. We also have a section of our blog dedicated to prevention within specific communities.
MAKE A U-TURN FOR BYSTANDER BEHAVIOR
Pro-social bystanders are people who can find safe ways to act when they see harmful behaviors and attitudes. Cultural change starts with you! “Hit the brakes” and address victim-blaming comments you hear from a neighbor. Speak up if a friend tells a sexist joke.