UC SAN DIEGO

April 1, 2026

ALL ACADEMICS, STAFF, AND STUDENTS AT UC SAN DIEGO, INCLUDING UC SAN DIEGO HEALTH

Each year, April is designated as National Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). First observed nationally in 2001, the primary goal of SAAM was to raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual violence and its impact on survivors. It has since expanded to focus on community education and violence prevention. SAAM has been recognized at UC San Diego since 2007 and serves as an opportunity for all members of our community to get involved and learn more about our role in creating an anti-violent community.

CARE at the Sexual Assault Resource Center coordinates the campuswide activities for SAAM, including the development of the annual theme. This year’s theme, Power in Prevention: A Love Letter to the Future, is inspired by Josef Canaria’s keynote speech at last year’s National Sexual Assault Conference, where he reminded us that the seeds of prevention we plant today help us grow into the community we want to be. Our theme is centered on the premise that it is within all of our power to reimagine the world into one free of sexual and relationship violence; we can create a safer and more joyful future for our communities.

Some of the key dates and events during SAAM 2026 include:

For the full SAAM calendar, detailed event descriptions, and registration information, please visit SAAM webpage and follow @ucsdcare on Instagram.

In recognition of this annual event, two hours of administrative leave with pay has been approved so that employees may attend a UC San Diego Sexual Assault Awareness Month activity. Supervisors, upon request, may approve the use of such leave when the absence does not infringe upon the performance of required job duties or patient care.

While SAAM highlights the importance of raising awareness and building healthier communities free of sexual violence, we recognize that the increased prevalence of these discussions can be challenging for survivors with direct experience of these issues. If you are in need of support services or additional resources during this time, please contact our confidential CARE advocates at (858) 534-5793.