The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced on April 2 its participation in Sexual Assault Awareness Month, joining the Department of Justice, the Office on Violence Against Women, and communities across the country in this annual observance.
The month aims to raise awareness about sexual violence and encourage efforts to prevent it. The office said it is committed to supporting survivors and working with partners at all levels to ensure access to justice and resources.
In Fiscal Year 2025, more than $5.6 million was awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) to grantees in Wisconsin through various programs. These include funding for Tribal Sexual Assault Services, Legal Assistance for Victims, and Transitional Housing Assistance Grants that address domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
“Survivors of sexual assault deserve safety, dignity, and justice,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Schimel. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to supporting and seeking justice for survivors. We will continue to work with our federal, state and local partners to ensure survivors find a justice system that is compassionate and ready to help provide for their safety and healing.”
The office encouraged residents throughout the district to learn more about sexual assault issues and support those affected by these crimes by recognizing signs of abuse or connecting victims with available services.
Resources mentioned include the national Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673), StrongHearts Native Helpline at 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483), as well as a "Resources for Survivors" page on OVW's website listing state coalitions offering local support.
