UNCLASSIFIED ROUTINE R 011317Z APR 22 MID200001626488U FM SECNAV WASHINGTON DC TO ALNAV INFO SECNAV WASHINGTON DC CNO WASHINGTON DC CMC WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS ALNAV 018/22 MSGID/GENADMIN/SECNAV WASHINGTON DC/-/APR// SUBJ/SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS AND PREVENTION MONTH// RMKS/1. April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. 2. The Department of the Navy is focused on a holistic approach to sexual assault prevention. This month, and every month, we must work together to promote trust, foster healthy climates and stop destructive behaviors at their onset. 3. Sexual assault and sexual harassment threaten our combat readiness and the cohesion within our Department. The cost of failing to act - failing to protect a teammate - is undeniable. I expect leaders at all levels to embrace reform and approach these challenges with determined and unwavering tenacity. We must eradicate the foundational barriers of misogyny, racism, discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and other forms of disrespect. We are all responsible for cultivating a climate of dignity and respect. 4. An engaged force at all levels is our greatest weapon against sexual assault. Each of you has the power to set the tone. Model the right behavior and set the example for what "right" looks like. Know the warning signs that increase the risk of sexual assault within a command: sexual harassment, gender discrimination, lack of responsibility and intervention, workplace hostility, and lack of respect and unit cohesion. Keep an eye out for these behaviors, and speak up when you see them - because they may lead to, or encourage, something even more destructive. 5. For those Marines and Sailors who do experience sexual assault, we stand ready to provide assistance. The sexual assault prevention and response (SAPR) program provides eligible adult sexual assault victims the opportunity to formally report these crimes and receive supportive services. Our SAPR Victim Advocates and Sexual Assault Response Coordinators are also able to provide resources and confidential reporting options. 6. Confidential assistance is also available 24/7 from the DoD Safe Helpline at (877) 995-5247 or https://www.safehelpline.org/. Civilian employees can receive assistance 24/7 from the Department of the Navy Civilian Employee Assistance Program at (844) 366-2327. 7. Released by the Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy.// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//