When we think about sexual assault, who is to blame for the crime: the victim or the offender? We supposedly live in a society where we are able to express ourselves through our actions, and not be sexually assaulted simply because the offender thinks it is “provocative.”  

It is true, sometimes the way we dress or the way that someone expresses themselves on social media can be misguided and people tend to get the wrong impression.

However, a person should not be obligated to any sexual activity with anyone. We shouldn’t have to say “no” more than once for the opposing person to get the point. The word “no” is very clear and it should be understood without any further questions or any further advancements

Saying “NO” means that they do not give you permission to physically touch them. It means that they do not approve of any actions, and this should not be seen as a game or a joke. Everyone should be taken seriously even if they aren’t sober or in the right mindset. It doesn’t matter if you are in a relationship or friendship a “NO” is still a “NO.”

One out of five girls are at risk of being sexually assaulted. Men are five times more likely to be sexually assaulted while attending college than those who don’t attend college.

Sexual assault can affect the victim not just physically, but also emotionally and mentally. Sexual assault can occur anywhere. It isn’t a joke, many people think that you can forgive and forget, but being a victim of sexual assault can have a huge impact on the victim. No human being should be forced into something they do not approve of.

We are a society that is evolving with time, and it would be great if years from now sexual assault were simply a memory and not an issue as it is today. Just like we try improving our economy, develop technology and coming up with new fashion trends we should try to bring awareness into our society.