Sexual Violence in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan has the highest rates of Sexual Violence in Canada. Understanding consent can help us all change that.

Unfortunately, there are still a lot of gaps in consent education. The impacts from this lack of awareness and education are part of the many factors that contribute to high rates of sexualized violence in Saskatchewan. We are hopeful that this campaign can help reduce the experience of sexualized violence but we recognize that many people have experienced and are still experiencing sexual assault because of the lack of awareness and understanding about consent.

We understand the heaviness and discomfort of having conversations about topics like sexual assault. However, the more we can educate ourselves about it and lean into our courage to talk about it and act against it, the more we can contribute to making relationships, communities, and environments safer for everyone.

So, let’s talk about it. What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault is legally defined as “any unwanted act of a sexual nature that is imposed on another person without their consent and which violates, or threatens to violate, their sexual integrity. It includes, but is not limited to, unwanted kissing, touching, penetration or attempted penetration.”


Essentially, any unwanted sexual contact without voluntary and enthusiastic permission = sexual assault. If direct and enthusiastic consent is not given during any situation involving sexual activity, this is sexual assault and is a serious crime.

Did you know that Saskatchewan has the highest rates of Sexual Violence in Canada? According to Statistics Canada, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will experience sexual violence in their lifetime. The risk of experiencing of sexual violence is even greater for marginalized groups of people including Indigenous Women and Girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+, persons living with disabilities and newcomers.

The experience of sexual violence is more common than you think and it is very likely that someone you know has experienced it.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted there are a variety of options available. Whether you choose to pursue any of these options is up to you. You have choices and you get to decide what is best for you.

Before you scroll away, there are a few other things we wanted you to know:

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted:

  • What happened to you was not your fault.

  • We believe you and are here to support you in any way we can.

  • People who commit sexual assault are always 100% responsible for the crime.

  • Your relationship status (married, dating, hooking-up) doesn’t entitle someone to sex with your body- you get to choose who you have sex with, and what activities you are comfortable with.

  • Everyone responds to and processes trauma in their own way. Your feelings, thoughts, and actions are completely valid.

  • Any response you had before, during, or after the experience of sexual assault is a normal and human reaction to an abnormal situation.

  • You are not alone in what you are going through.

  • SASS is here to help. Visit our website to learn more or reach out to us at info@sassk.ca or via our social media. Everything you share with us is received with care and compassion and will remain confidential.

  • Whether the sexual assault was hours ago, or years ago, your physical and mental health matter. You might have injuries that require medical treatment at the hospital or with your local healthcare provider. There are a variety of different medical options that you can pursue following sexual assault including:

    -Preventative treatments or screening for sexual transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy

    -Treatment and documentation of wounds or injuries

    -Referrals to community supports

    Some hospitals in Saskatchewan are equipped to perform “Sexual Assault Evidence Kits” (SAEK) or “rape kits” with specialized Forensic Nurses. These nurses can collect DNA evidence of the sexual assault, document injuries, and provide medical treatment up to 7 days after an assault. To know if a SAEK is available in your area, you can find contact information for your local sexual assault support service on the SASS website here.

    *Whether you choose to pursue any of these options is up to you. You have choices and you get to decide what is best for you. *

  • You have the choice of what you want to do after experiencing sexual assault.

    Some people who have experienced sexual assault find that talking about their experience(s) with a counsellor is helpful. Counselling is one way to help manage thoughts, feelings, and emotions after experiencing sexual assault.

    Counselling support will also be able to guide you through the other options available to you including medical care, SAEK, and reporting to police.

    In Saskatchewan, you can find counselling supports for your area on the SASS website here.

    *Whether you choose to pursue any of these options is up to you. You have choices and you get to decide what is best for you. *

  • Whether the assault happened hours ago, or years ago, you can always make a report to police. There is no Canadian statute of limitations for the crime of sexual assault.

    All police services have the option to report in-person at your local police service/ RCMP detachment. Some police services have the option to make your report online. You can visit your local police service website, or call your local police non-emergency number to find out what options are available in your community.

    *Whether you choose to pursue any of these options is up to you. You have choices and you get to decide what is best for you. *

OPTIONS: