Sexual Assault and Rape

Sexual assault and rape are weapons used by perpetrators to hurt and dominate others—motivated by a need to control, humiliate, and harm. It is never a survivor’s fault.

Sexual assault refers to any sexual, physical, verbal, or visual act that forces a person to engage in sexual contact against their will or without their affirmative consent. Rape commonly refers to forced sexual intercourse, including vaginal, anal, or oral penetration through physical force, such as being restrained or drugged, or threats to escalate violence. Legal definitions of these terms vary by states and jurisdictions.

In the United States, one in three women and one in six men are survivors of sexual violence.

If you or someone you know need help, view this list of resources.

At Joyful Heart, we understand how difficult the pain of these experiences can be. We honor the strength it takes to survive and heal. We sincerely hope the information and resources below and throughout our website can help along that journey.