24 Hr Crisis Line
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sexual assault?
Sexual Assault includes any sexual contact or behavior enacted upon a person without their consent.* Unwanted, tricked or coerced sexual activity that may or may not include physical contact involves — but is not limited to the following: rape; incest; molestation; unwanted touching, kissing or fondling; cat calls; stalking; threats directed at a person’s sexuality; flashing; forcing a person to watch porn; explicit conversation or comments; etc. Anyone can commit sexual assault against any other person, regardless of their relationship.
*According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is defined by unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors as well as other verbal and physical behavior that makes you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Sexual harassment frequently occurs in the workplace and in learning settings.
What is sexual violence?
Sexual violence is an umbrella term that includes the causes of sexual assault and acts of sexual assault itself. * Social attitudes, values and beliefs that do not respect individuals as equals, (e.g.; victim blaming; misogyny/sexism, and heterosexism; racism, homophobia and transphobia; biased legal, educational and social institutions; etc.) contribute to an environment that allows for sexual assault/abuse/harassment to occur at an epidemic level. Sexual violence is considered a social, legal and public health concern because of the long term impact it has on those affected by it. *According to The World Health Organization
Check out more info on The Continuum of Sexual Violence.
What is consent?
Consent is a freely given, mutual agreement between people every time they engage in an activity, sexual or not. Consent is voluntary: everyone involved is really into it — that means no one is being pressured — and everyone knows what’s happening next. You have the right to reverse consent; which means, you have the right to stop at anytime.
Check out some comics about consent.
How do I know if I have someone’s consent?
Consent requires communication which can be expressed through words and body language. Silence alone does not equal consent. Ask yourself: Is the person enthusiastic; are they responding in a positive way? If you are unsure, stop what you’re doing and talk about it. If a person is high, drunk, or unconscious, they are unable to consent. Having sex with someone while they are passed out is rape.
I was high and drunk when I was sexually assaulted. Was it my fault?
It was not your fault. No matter what you were doing, who you were with, where you were or what you were wearing, you are not to blame. People committing acts of sexual violence are responsible for their actions, period. Our counseling services can offer you the support and tools to work through complex emotions you may experience post-assault. Please call our business line @ 828-252-0562 to complete a counseling referral form.
What type of services does Our VOICE provide?
- Resource referrals for needs such as housing, transportation, food, etc.
- Advocacy for survivors who receive support from other social service agencies
- Accompaniment during medical, law enforcement, and legal procedures
- Ongoing emotional support
- Referrals to legal agencies for representation and legal advice
- Assist in filing for state funded Victim’s Compensation
- Enrollment assistance for the NC Address Confidentiality Program
- Act as a liaison between client and District Attorney’s Office
- Act as a liaison between client and law enforcement agencies
More Questions?
If you are interested in any services or have further questions, please call Our Voice at (828) 252-0562.
If you need immediate assistance, please call our 24-hour crisis line at (828) 255-7576.