Oregon SATF Statement on the Escalating Humanitarian Crises, Wars, and Intersections with Sexual Violence
Like so many of you, we at Oregon SATF have been watching the continuing and escalating humanitarian crises happening around the globe with feelings of horror, sadness, anger, and despair. It is difficult to know what to say or do when confronted with the details of the suffering and targeted annihilation of individuals and entire communities, but as a nonprofit dedicated to addressing the root causes of violence and abuse, we believe it is important to address the alarming connections between sexual violence, war, and international campaigns of violence.
Sexual violence is a deeply rooted issue within societies (including the United States)*. Sexual violence has been used as a weapon of choice in war, including in the perpetration of genocides in the United States (against Indigenous and Native people) and around the world. The impact on survivors is devastating, leaving lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars that can negatively transform entire societies for generations.
At Oregon SATF, we recognize the urgent need to address these interconnected crises, and stand in solidarity with those affected. We hope for peace, even when it feels improbable. It is crucial for us to acknowledge the severity and complexity of the extreme violence taking place in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, and beyond, and work with you, our partners across the state, to take collective action in support of the fellow human beings that are surviving the trauma of these wars and global ‘conflicts’. This must include recognition of, and a demand to end the practice of, sexual assault and violence targeting innocent civilians as war tactics.
Here are some tangible steps that individuals, communities, and organizations can take to make a meaningful difference:
Raise Awareness: Share information about the intersections between sexual violence, war, and genocide. Educate your networks about the realities survivors face and the urgent need for systemic change. Increase your own awareness by engaging with news, readings, or other media that increases your understanding of current humanitarian crises.
Support Organizations on the Ground: Contribute to, promote, or collaborate with organizations actively working to provide aid, support, and resources to survivors. Financial assistance and partnerships are essential for effective response efforts. Additionally, divest wherever possible from corporations that endorse or profit from war crimes.
Engage in Methods to Promote Sustainability: We need a collective of engaged citizens to address complex problems like sexual violence, genocide, and other forms of violence. Because of this, it is imperative that you engage in mechanisms to care for yourself and those in our community. Check out our Sustainability Guide to brainstorm ways that you can take care of yourself and others, so that you maintain the ability to engage in this work.
Advocate for Policy Change: Contact your legislators and leaders. Advocate for policy changes that prioritize the prevention and response to sexual violence in conflict zones. Support legislation locally and globally that holds people that perpetrate violence accountable, and ensures justice for survivors.
Amplify Survivor Voices: Share survivor perspectives in your social media channels. Create platforms for survivors to share their experiences and perspectives. Amplifying their voices helps raise awareness and challenges the stigma surrounding sexual violence.
Promote Gender Equality: Address the root causes of sexual violence by advocating for gender equality and challenging harmful gender norms. Sustainable change requires dismantling the structures that perpetuate violence.
At Oregon SATF, we remain committed to our mission of creating lasting systems change for sexual violence prevention and response. We steadfastly hold to our belief that a world without sexual violence is possible and that oppression - in all of its forms - must be eradicated.
Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to creating a safer, just, and equitable world.
Oregon Sexual Assault Task Force
taskforce@oregonsatf.org
* in 2008, the UN Security Council affirmed that “rape and other forms of sexual violence can constitute war crimes, crimes against humanity or a constitutive act with respect to genocide. To learn more: https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/Headquarters/Media/Publications/UNIFEM/EVAWkit_06_Factsheet_ConflictAndPostConflict_en.pdf
