April is recognized nationwide as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and promoting prevention efforts in communities across the country—including right here in Terry County and Brownfield.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is an annual campaign observed every April to educate the public about sexual violence and highlight the importance of prevention, survivor support, and justice. Communities, organizations, and leaders use this time to draw attention to an issue affecting millions of Americans and to encourage open conversations about safety, consent, and accountability.
Locally, that message was reinforced as Voice of Hope partnered with area leaders to recognize the month in a meaningful way. Representatives from Voice of Hope, based in Lubbock, traveled to Terry County and Brownfield, where Terry County Judge Tony Serbantez and Brownfield Mayor Eric Horton officially signed a proclamation declaring April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Voice of Hope has served survivors across the South Plains for decades, providing advocacy, counseling, and crisis response services. Their presence in Terry County highlights the importance of making resources accessible, especially in rural communities where support can sometimes be limited.
The need for awareness is backed by sobering statistics. National data shows that nearly half of women in the United States—about 45 percent—have experienced some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime, while more than 1 in 6 men have also been affected. Additionally, an estimated 420,000 Americans age 12 and older experience sexual assault each year, though experts say the real number is likely much higher due to underreporting.
Other data reveals that in approximately 60 percent of sexual assault cases, the victim knows the perpetrator, and many incidents go unreported due to fear, stigma, or lack of resources. These realities underscore why awareness, education, and community involvement are so critical.
The proclamation signing serves as both a symbol and a commitment—recognizing the reality of sexual violence while emphasizing the community’s role in prevention and support.
Brownfield Mayor Eric Horton emphasized the importance of standing together as a community to address the issue.
“Sexual assault is something that affects people right here in Terry County and Brownfield. It’s important that we stand with those who’ve been through it and make sure they know they’re not alone. We’re proud to support Voice of Hope and be part of bringing awareness and help to those who need it.”
Leaders across Terry County and Brownfield stressed that awareness must lead to action through education, open dialogue, and support for survivors.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month also serves as a reminder that support systems matter. Organizations like Voice of Hope play a vital role in walking alongside survivors through some of their most difficult moments, offering hope, healing, and a path forward.
As Terry County and Brownfield join communities across Texas and the nation in recognizing this month, the message is clear: standing together, supporting survivors, and working toward prevention can make a lasting difference.
