City of Alexandria Recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Poetry Share, Pinwheel Garden, Help Resources and More

Page updated on April 2, 2025 at 11:48 AM
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Media Contact: Debra Evans, Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Division Chief, debra.evans@alexandriava.gov, 571.379.2633.


Alexandria, Va. – In recognition of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the City of Alexandria is holding a series of events and activities throughout April to support survivors and engage the community in prevention efforts. 

Sexual assault is a crime that occurs when a person is forced, threatened or coerced by anyone into sexual contact or attention. This includes when they are unable to consent due to age, illness, disability or the influence of alcohol or other drugs. In addition to any form of forced physical sexual contact, examples include indecent exposure, voyeurism, obscene phone calls, ritual abuse, and sexual harassment. 

Sexual assault happens in all communities to people of any age and gender. Survivors may experience a range of emotional, psychological and physical reactions. Whether the sexual assault happened recently or years ago, it can impede daily functioning. 

The City’s Sexual Assault Center (SAC) is sponsoring the following activities and events:

  • Join the planting of the Pinwheel Garden for Child Abuse Awareness on April 4 from 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Charles Hill Park. See how to plant your own pinwheel garden.
  • Attend “Embrace Your Voice,” annual poetry share on April 29 from 6- 8:30 p.m.at the Lyceum (201 South Washington Street). Co-sponsored with Doorways and Friends of Guest House. Register  as a poet or attendee.
  • Wear denim on April 30 and post with #DenimDay to support survivors of sexual violence.
  • Look for Sexual Assault Center coasters and coffee sleeves at local restaurants to encourage coffee drinkers in need to access help.
  • See the Jeans, Clothesline and Quilt displays addressing violence against women at the Del Pepper Community Resource Center (4850 Mark Center Dr.) and the Alexandria Police Department (3600 Wheeler Ave) through April.
  • Donate to the Sexual Assault Center.
  • Volunteer at alexandriava.gov/Volunteer.

The Sexual Assault Center offers resources and services for survivors of sexual assault and those supporting survivors. Learn more at alexandriava.gov/SexualViolence or call the 24/7 hotline at 703.683.7273. In case of an emergency, and for life-threatening situations, always call 911. 

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact christina.damhuis@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.5694 or call Virginia Relay 711.