Members of Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Duluth, Minn., get ready at the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge for a 5K run along the city’s Lakewalk in support of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention month, April 25, 2017. (U.S. Coast Guard photo).
DULUTH, Minn. — Members of Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Duluth, Minnesota participated in a 5K run/walk along the Duluth Lakewalk in support of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, Tuesday.
April is designated nationwide each year to raise awareness about sexual harassment and sexual assault. In the Coast Guard, April is also used to educate members about resources available to them both in the Coast Guard and in the community.
“This year’s Coast Guard theme is, “Not in my Coast Guard!” and recognizes every member’s responsibility to create a culture of respect and rid the Service of sexual assault,” said Erin Williams, Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Unit Duluth.
Throughout the month, training is held throughout the Coast Guard to ensure 100% of Coast Guard personnel are made aware of the impacts of sexual assault to the organization, its members and their dependents. Additional resources and training are provided to the Coast Guard men and women to prevent sexual assault and harassment as well as appropriately respond to reports and support the victims.
“We hope to bring awareness to these issues and highlight the resources available to survivors,” said Chief Petty Officer Michelle Houston. “Every victim deserves to be believed and receive respectful care and support.”
