KINGS POINT, NY – Apr. 3, 2020 –This week marks the official start of National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAM) at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA).

President Donald J. Trump issued the Proclamation on National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, 2020. USMMA joins the President, as “we pause to recognize the devastation caused by sexual assault and to recommit ourselves to eliminating this atrocious crime.”  

The Academy’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Office and SAAM Committee have partnered with departments across campus to provide a variety of virtual events, resources, and activities that promote the Academy-wide effort to create a climate that does not tolerate sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexist behavior. The theme for this year’s campaign is “I Ask.”

“This year, SAAM provides unique opportunities to support our Midshipmen and show our dedication to eradicating sexual assault and sexual harassment," said Eric Alleyne, Director of the USMMA SAPR office. “We will be sharing resources and activities by email, video-conference, and social media, reiterating that each of us can make a difference no matter where we are." 

SAAM is just one of the many activities managed by USMMA’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program. Despite the challenges of our new distance learning environment, the Academy remains committed to prevention and accountability for all forms of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, sexual or gender-based harassment, relationship violence, and stalking.  The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) is available 24/7 for support and for reporting:  1 844-356-7137 or 516-462-3207