Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR)
The Department of Defense has experienced some periods of progress in decreasing occurrences of sexual assault. However, future reductions demand additional significant steps to institutionalize the conditions that support lasting progress, align
efforts to proven approaches, and drive the kind of behavioral and cultural changes that will achieve the Agency’s vision of a military free from sexual assault.
Prevention is much more than training, an awareness campaign, or an inspiring poster. The Department of Defense’s prevention approach engages leaders at all levels and requires a personal commitment from every Service member to uphold military
core values.
DoD is committed to eliminating sexual assault and fostering a culture of dignity and respect for every Service member. The desired end state is an atmosphere where cultural imperatives of mutual respect and trust, professional values, and team
commitment are reinforced to create an environment where sexual assault is not tolerated, condoned, or ignored.
- Sexual Assault is a Crime;
- Sexual Assault is defined as intentional contact, characterized by use of force. Threats, intimidation, or abuse of authority, or when the victim does not or cannot consent.
- Sexual Assault Includes: Rape, sexual assault, aggravated sexual contact, abusive sexual contact, forcible sodomy (forced oral or anal sex), or attempts to commit these acts.
- Sexual Assault can occur without regard to gender or spousal relationship with the victim.
24/7 NUMBERS FOR ASSISTANCE
DOD SAFE HELPLINE… (877) 995-5247
https://www.safehelpline.org/
“SAPR Connect” Community of Practice
To assist military sexual assault response professionals, the DoD SAPR Office developed and manages “SAPR Connect,” an online platform to collaborate and share ideas, research, insights from experts, and news from the field. This common access
card (CAC)–enabled collaborative community of practice to ensure DoD has dynamic and responsive sexual assault prevention efforts. SAPR Connect provides users a wide variety of resources to ensure Sexual Assault Prevention programs are as
effective as possible.
If you have any questions about SAPR, please email:
dtra.belvoir.dir.mbx.equity-diversity-and-inclusion-inbox@mail.mil
or call 703-767-4451.