Matteson Area Public Library Presents Sexual Assault Awareness Month Programs during April the theme-“Engaging New Voices"

The Matteson Area Public Library is presenting programs this April focusing on Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) campaign. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an annual awareness and prevention campaign organized nationally by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center to expand sexual assault prevention efforts and help the next generation foster attitudes that promote healthy relationships, equality and respect.

During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Matteson Area Public Library will bring the theme of “Engaging New Voices” to life by hosting the following programs.

April 1st – 30th Stop-in and Write a Postcard to legislators to speak-out. Write a postcard to government legislators urging them to implement stronger laws for Sexual Assault crimes.

April 10th, 2017: Write a Love Letter to Yourself. Are you dealing with the trauma of assault? Stop in and write a letter to yourself and express your feelings about this issue. 7:00 PM

April 22nd, 2017: Self Defense Program One Light Self Defense team will be teaching self-defense and safety awareness in this 3 hr. program. 10:00 AM Registration required FILLED!

April 22nd, 2017 Silent No More! SPEAKOUT! Are you a survivor of an attack and would like to share your feelings in a safe environment? Come in to the library for a closed safe place a sexual violence crises counselor will be available along with provided materials to draw, write, or just speak to others about this issue and your feelings. 2:00 PM

April 26th, 2017: Wear Denim for a Purpose Make & Take Craft Celebrate National Denim Day and make a craft from denim to take home. 4:30 PM Registration required. Denim Day is a campaign to prevent sexual violence through education and public awareness. *FILLED

Every Monday, the library will post a new “Ted Talk” that focuses on this crucial issue. Look for the link on

- library’s webpage Mapld.org Facebook and Twitter accounts.

• Violence Against Women: Jackson Katz
• A Call to Men: Tony Porter
• How We Talk About Sexual Assault Online: Ione Walls
• Find Your Voice Against Gender Violence: Meera Vijayann
• Our Story of Rape & Reconciliation: Thorda Elva & Tom Strange

For more details about specific events, or to register visit the Matteson Area Public Library, located at 801 School St. Matteson IL. 60443.

Call 708-748-4432 ext. 203 or email ASDEPT@MAPLD.ORG.