Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program Distributes No Means No! Consent Cards During Sexual Assault Awareness Month

For Immediate Release:  Monday, April 22, 2019

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program (VASAP) has produced informational consent cards, printed in both English and Spanish. The cards are being distributed throughout the community as an important reminder about sexual consent. 

Designed by local resident Najla Cabello, a graduate of the Savannah College of Arts and Design, the animated cards are available on the VASAP website and laminated cards may be found at locations across Montgomery County, including libraries and recreation centers and at special events throughout April. 

“In this era of increased awareness of unwanted sexual attention, it is important that sexually active men and women understand appropriate boundaries and the necessity of having consent,” said Dr. Raymond Crowel, chief of the Department of Health and Human Services’ Behavioral Health and Crisis Services. “The cards provide information on sexual consent and urge users to get explicit consent before sexual activity.”

The information is simple: Because there was a Yes given before, it does not mean Yes now or in the future.  If the person does not understand they are giving consent to sex, then it is a No!  It is not possible to give a clear Yes or consent when drugs and alcohol are impairing judgement.  Bottom line:  ASK PERMISSION!  Wait for a clear YES!

To view the animated cards, visit www.vasap.org. 

VASAP assists victims of violent crimes and sexual assault.  The program provides 24-hour telephone and walk-in crisis counseling information and referral.  Staffed by a team of licensed therapists, VASAP relies on volunteers to provide vital crisis services while victims are at the hospital for forensic examination and at court appearances.  Volunteers are available to victims 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days per year. 

For information on volunteer opportunities, visit www.vasap.org

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Media Contact:  Mary Anderson, 240-777-6534