Make a difference. Everyone can help create safe and respectful communities by challenging attitudes and behaviours that promote sexual violence and victim blaming.

Be aware. Learn about sexual violence and what you can do about it. It is not likely that you will see a sexual assault in progress, but you will see and hear attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate it. When you intervene, you are helping to prevent sexual violence. It is also important to examine your own attitudes and behaviour to make sure you are part of the solution rather than part of the problem.

Stay safe and positive. Taking action does not mean getting into a fight or putting your own safety at risk. Strategize respectful and non-violent things you can do to confront abuse.

Speak up. When your friend tells a joke about rape, say you don't find it funny. When you read an article or social media post that blames a victim for being assaulted, respond by countering the victim blaming and misconceptions about sexual violence.

Take action. Check in with the person you are concerned about. Interrupt the aggressive or concerning behaviour to provide an opportunity for someone who is feeling cornered to slip away. Tell the person who is being offensive or aggressive that you do not like the way they are acting.

Organize. Ending sexual violence will not happen overnight or in isolation. To bring about this change, you need to work with others. Enlist the help of friends, family, and peers, or join a group that is already advocating for the elimination of sexual violence.

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Recognize sexual violence. Call it out. Support survivors. 

Now you know.