Every May, Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS), its member agencies, community partners and the Government of Saskatchewan recognize Sexual Violence Prevention Month (SVPM). Sexual Violence Prevention Month is a collaborative approach that unites communities, government agencies, and advocacy groups in a shared mission to end sexual violence in Saskatchewan. SASS extends an open invitation to all residents, institutions, and businesses of Saskatchewan to actively participate in SVPM. Whether through attendance at SASS SVPM events, sharing messages on social media, or taking part in local initiatives, everyone is encouraged to join forces to embrace the vision of a violence-free Saskatchewan.
Why do we need sexual violence prevention?
Saskatchewan has the 2nd highest provincial rate of sexual violence in Canada1.
Reacting to, instead of preventing sexual violence doesn’t address root causes. Sexual violence is costing Canadian taxpayers $4.8 billion per year2.
Every person in Saskatchewan deserves to be free from threat, fear, or experience of sexual violence.
What is causing sexual violence in Saskatchewan?
Sexual violence is caused by many factors, including a high cost of living, limited access to resources, colonization, and unhealthy gender norms.
Among SASS Member Agencies in 2024, the most common concern was how mental health issues and addictions were both the cause and the consequence of sexual violence in our communities.
Key Facts about Sexual Violence and Mental Health & Addictions
In Saskatchewan, 43.1% of survivors of sexual violence increase their use of drugs, alcohol, and medication3.
The rate of sexual assault against Canadians who reported drug use was four times higher than those who did not1.
In Saskatchewan, human traffickers exploit addiction to control others4.
Sexual violence and addiction fuel each other. They are both cause and consequence—and must be addressed together.
Sexual violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals can be prevented by dismantling colonial structures and advancing decolonization, cultural resurgence, and Indigenous self-determination.
Sexual harassment is not harmless—it’s harmful. It causes lasting damage to individuals, teams, and workplace culture. It undermines trust, safety, and dignity.
Prevention starts with the spaces we shape. Safe, respectful environments protect everyone.
Collaboration between public-serving agencies is needed to prevent sexual violence.
Perpetration isn’t born—it’s taught. Let’s unlearn harmful norms and teach respect, consent, and accountability.
Share SVPM key messages and resources on social media
Wear a SVPM pin
Attend SVPM events and webinars
Support centres that provide sexual violence support services
Sources
(1) Conroy, S., & Cotter, A. (2017). Self-reported sexual assault in Canada. Statistics Canada.
(2) Josh Hoddenbagh, Ting Zhang and Susan McDonald, 2014. An Estimation of the Economic Impact of Violent Victimization in Canada, 2009. Department of Justice Canada, Research and Statistics Division: Ottawa.
(3) Umereweneza, P., Lovrod, M., Findlay, I. M., & Giesbrecht, C. (2020). Sexual violence in Saskatchewan: Voices, stories, insights, and actions from the front lines. Community-University Institute for Social Research.
(4) RCMP. (2024). Human trafficking: Recognizing and reporting. Know the signs of human trafficking.
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