September is back to school for many students from elementary to college-aged kids. It’s a valuable time to talk to your kids of all ages about safety and safe boundaries when it comes to their bodies.  We understand it’s hard to know where to start with this conversation, but in the fight to end domestic violence and sexual assault having discussions can destigmatize these topics.  Some ways to start the conversation include:  Expressing to your family and friends the importance…

Over a century ago, Washington women said no more as they advocated for equal voting rights. Today, Washington women are saying no more to sexual assault and domestic violence.  The early Women’s Rights Movements began in July of 1848. Activists Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott proclaimed that “all men and women are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Modeled after the…

Of all sexual assault victims under the age of 18, two out of three are ages 12-17¹. However, for parents, this age can be the most challenging when communicating with your teen. Approaching a topic like sexual assault can be intimidating for a parent. That is why starting with these four main questions can help kick-start a conversation with your teen that can pave the road to recovery or work as a preventative method for safety.  Katie Yates director of…

According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, one in four women will be a victim of severe domestic violence in her lifetime. Many of these cases are so severe that victims require a blood or platelet transfusion.  Unfortunately, blood donations drop by 6% every year when people take time off during school breaks. However, during the summer, the need for blood is still there. There are still transfusions being made every day in hospitals around the area. What if Washington…

Spring break is here for many colleges and universities across Washington. To better equip yourself with the tools for a safe spring break here are a list of preventative measures students should take to help themselves and others remain safe at school and while on vacation. “Your actions can affect the outcome,” says Michelle Bart, president of NWCAVE. “Keeping in mind these preventative methods and intervening actions can make a difference in a potentially dangerous situation for yourself or those…

1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men were sexually abused before the age of 18. These people are our neighbors, our family members and our friends. As a community, it is our responsibility to advocate against sexual assault and domestic violence.  March 3rd – 9th is NO MORE week and we have a chance to engage people from around the United States on the importance of ending domestic violence and sexual assault. How will you say NO MORE?…

February is here and that means love is in the air. A few things you may want to consider before you start a new relationship. Most people are aware that possessiveness, aggression and controlling behavior are signs of an unhealthy or even dangerous relationship. According to Psychology Today, too much romance could also indicate a potentially abusive partner.   The classic image of a person being swept off their feet is powerful in America, and broad sweeping gestures of affection continue…

Every January, you are presented with the opportunity to reinvent yourself in a positive and more productive way. This month is a chance to shake up your routine, whether that be a simple or dramatic change. Is a feeling of accomplishment and influence within your community’s growth something you wish to achieve this year? This year, don’t watch from the sidelines. Lead a lasting change on behalf of all women, men and children who are or have been victims of…

As the clock strikes down the remaining minutes of 2018 it is important to think about your New Year’s plans. Your outfit should be eye-catching and your night should go accordingly; however, as sexual assault and domestic violence encounters continue to be a problem, it is a necessity to keep yourself safe as you start the new year. Whether you attend a party on campus, a friendly get together or enjoy the night at a bar or club, it is…

As International Survivors of Suicide Day is approaching this November 17, it’s important to remember to talk to your loved ones about this subject. According to Forefront Suicide Prevention, in Washington State alone suicide was the eighth leading cause of death affecting 1,131 individuals in 2016. Washington Says No More stands with family, friends and anyone affected by suicide. As hundreds gather around the globe to support those who have been affected by suicide loss it is essential to show…