Birmingham City Council took a significant step in raising awareness about sexual assault during its regular meeting on April 15, 2025. Mayor Randall L. Wood proclaimed April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, emphasizing the urgent need for community education and support for survivors.

In his proclamation, Mayor Wood highlighted alarming statistics, noting that an American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds, with a child victim every 9 minutes. He urged residents to join efforts in creating a culture of respect and accountability, aligning with this year's campaign theme: "Together We Act, United We Change."

Anna Sullivan, Executive Director of the Crisis Center, addressed the council, underscoring the importance of their work in supporting survivors. She shared that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 14 men will experience sexual assault in their lifetime, stressing the need for accessible resources. Sullivan detailed the center's specialized services, including a clinic equipped to handle evidence collection and provide immediate support to victims, which is crucial for their recovery.

The discussion also touched on the need for greater public awareness of available resources. Council members expressed their surprise at the lack of knowledge about the center's services and discussed strategies for disseminating information more effectively. Sullivan and her team are working on resource kits and outreach initiatives to ensure that community members are informed about the support available to them.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the community to engage in awareness efforts, reinforcing the message that support for survivors is vital in combating sexual violence. The council's commitment to this cause marks a pivotal moment in Birmingham's ongoing fight against sexual assault, aiming to foster a safer environment for all residents.