– to mark sexual Assault Awareness Month

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has launched Sexual Assault Awareness Month with the opening of the “Asking For It” exhibition—an initiative aimed at raising awareness about sexual assault while challenging societal norms that perpetuate victim-blaming narratives.
The exhibition, which runs from April 1-7, 2025, at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown, seeks to transform the way society responds to sexual assault. Officials emphasized that victim-blaming not only silences survivors but also emboldens perpetrators and discourages victims from seeking justice.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, delivered a powerful address at the opening ceremony, underscoring the importance of fostering a society where safety, security, and trust are not overshadowed by trauma, fear, and guilt.
“Today, Sexual Assault Awareness Month starts with an exhibition that brings a disturbing reality to the public—that sexual assault happens regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, or occupation,” Minister Persaud stated. “Globally and nationally, we pair security, safety, and trust with trauma, scars, fear, threats, intimidation, blame, and guilt. But these words should be felt and experienced always, not just spoken.”
The Minister highlighted the ongoing efforts by the Ministry to combat sexual assault, including the introduction of the 914 hotline, the implementation of the Family Violence Act of 2024 (which repeals the Domestic Violence Act of 1996), and the training of 50 percent of the Guyana Police Force under the Cop Squad initiative. Additionally, the Ministry has launched the ‘I Matter’ app, designed to connect individuals with the 914 hotline for immediate support.
In her address, Minister Persaud acknowledged the work of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU), led by Dr. Cona Husbands, and stressed the need for a shift in societal consciousness.
“We cannot exist in a country where all we do is cast blame. Who should have done what, and when? We need to start with education and awareness where it matters—at home, in families, in schools, in communities, in religious settings—literally everywhere,” she urged.
The Ministry also announced new initiatives in the pipeline, including the “Brave Circle,” which will focus on men—addressing prevention strategies, intervention, and rehabilitation of individuals exhibiting risky behavior. Another forthcoming program, the Partner Assault Programme, aims to address relationship issues and promote healthier interactions.
The “Asking For It” exhibition delivers a profound message through powerful recreations of what survivors wore, legal education, and workshops. Organizers emphasized the central theme: No one ever asks to be assaulted.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month is being observed under the theme “Building Connected Communities.” Statistics reveal that Guyana records an average of 300 sexual assault cases monthly, with over 70 percent of victims being children and individuals under 18. Shockingly, less than ten percent of cases result in convictions, while over 50 percent proceed to court.
The exhibition, hosted by the SO&DVPU in collaboration with The Imperial House (TIH), is expected to spark critical conversations on how communities can work together to combat sexual violence and support survivors. The Ministry continues to urge the public to participate in the discussions and initiatives aimed at fostering a safer society for all.