HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - Team members from Defense Contract Management Agency Huntsville recently hosted several activities to encourage a healthy and informed working environment, as part of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.
The day started with a "Color for Consent" two-mile run/walk on the Indian Creek Greenway. Participants were given facts about sexual assault, its impact on the federal government and prevention methods every quarter-mile. Entrants and supporters alike were asked to wear their boldest and brightest colors as a pledge to support survivors, and as a promise to help end sexual violence.
Tracy Anderson, the agency's Central Regional Command Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program victim advocate, led a presentation about sexual assault awareness and prevention. It covered multiple subjects including basic definitions of sexual assault and consent, sexual violence statistics, an explanation on how the brain processes trauma, and prevention tactics. She also provided team members with a list of useful resources.
Anderson, whose previous positions include serving as a victim advocate with both the San Antonio Rape Crisis Center and the Air Force Sexual Assault and Response Center at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, said "It is important for people to know that a sexual assault can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. We need to look out for each other by noticing our surroundings, and if we see something - say something. One sexual assault is one too many, and it is an act that is 100 percent preventable."
Following the presentation, employees watched the "The Invisible War," a 2012 Academy Award Nominee for Best Documentary Feature. The movie features stories of different women and men who dealt with, and are still dealing with, the effects of sexual assault.
Thirty employees participated in the walk/run and more than 40 employees joined in the presentation and movie screening.
"Sexual assault is a difficult subject that Tracy covered in a very positive and professional manner," said Stacy Soldon, a DCMA Huntsville contract administrator. "Her message was clear: sexual assault is an unfortunate reality. We all have a responsibility to do our part; if you see something, say something."