Why is sexual assault a problem that should concern us all? Because somewhere in America every 1-2 minutes someone is sexually assaulted. Sexual assault involves crimes of forced or unwanted sexual contact, including rape. When the SAFE Center was being established, the term "sexual assault" was used instead of "rape" because it would set the tone for a kind and gentle approach to treating patients of sexual assault. However, we quickly realized there is nothing kind or gentle about this subject matter. Rape is a harsh, ugly word, and no matter what you call it, it remains harsh and ugly.
Every 98 seconds, someone across the country experiences sexual assault. Those who call West Alabama home are no exception.
Sexual assault knows no boundaries. It occurs in all communities, regardless of race, gender, age, sexual preference, or socio-economic status. Rape and sexual assault is the most under-reported crime, and in fact, 63% of sexual assaults are never reported to police. And only 6 of every 1,000 perpetrators end up in prison.
When a sexual assault occurs, the survivors often do not know what to do or where to go. In short, they need a safe place to land.​
