COURT HOUSE – CARA, the Coalition Against Rape and Abuse, and Atlantic Cape Community College Student Government Association sponsored a sexual assault candlelight vigil April 20.
About 30 people joined together at the Cape May County Campus courtyard to light candles in memory of victims and in support of survivors of sexual assault. The purpose of the vigil was not only to raise awareness, but to educate, support and empower victims and survivors.
CARA, in its 38th year, started with one phone and has grown to offer 24-hour services. “The light is always on,” said Nikki Nichols of CARA.
During the vigil, Nichols, director of Community & Volunteer Relations, reminded everyone of staggering statistics about domestic and sexual violence in the country. Sexual assault and domestic violence does not discriminate, it happens everywhere and can happen to anyone, she said.
*One in five women and one in 33 men will be a victim of attempted or completed rape.
*Every 107 seconds, someone is sexually assaulted.
*College-age students are three times at higher risk of sexual assault.
Due to those statistics, the Student Government Association at Atlantic Cape felt a need to join together with CARA to spread awareness and stop the silence.
Holding vigils not only unites the community but shows support to victims of these crimes. The vigil symbolizes hope. Hope for people to speak out and to unite about sexual assault, because every voice counts and every story matters.
Candles were lit and the group formed a circle as several speakers addressed the crowd.
Speakers included Katherine Melo of Atlantic Cape’s Student Government Association, Freeholder E. Marie Hayes and CARA staff.
After a moment of silence, candles were extinguished and hugs were exchanged throughout the courtyard.
More information about sexual assault awareness is available at CARA toll-free 1-877-294-2272.
To contact Johanna Hovik, email jhovik@cmcherald.com.
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