25 Years Stronger: ‘Looking Back, Moving Forward’
For 25 years, Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) has united survivors, advocates, and communities in the shared commitment to end sexual assault, abuse, and harassment. This milestone is both a celebration of progress and a call to keep moving forward. The theme ‘25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward’ honours the history and growth of the movement while reaffirming the Sexual Abuse Support and Healing (SASH) organisations commitment to a safer future for all.
“Looking back, we remember the survivors and advocates who laid the foundation for change,” says SASH Nelson General Manager Kirsten Nalder. “Moving forward, we renew our focus on prevention, healing, and action. For generations, sexual harm existed largely in the shadows. It was rarely spoken about, often hidden behind closed doors and buried under layers of silence. Survivors have been too often cloaked in shame, carrying the weight of something that should never have been theirs to bear. Silence and secrecy protects perpetrators while isolating those who have been harmed.”
Over the past 25 years, that silence has begun to break. Reporting has increased significantly, and more people are finding the courage – and the support – to speak about what has happened to them. As these voices grow stronger and more visible, the narrative is shifting. The shame that sits silently with survivors is increasingly being recognised for what it truly is: something that belongs with the person who caused the harm.
“Sexual Assault Awareness Month invites us to reflect on how far we have come. Looking back reminds us of the long years when silence prevailed. Moving forward means continuing to bring these experiences into the open – out of the darkness and into the light – where survivors are believed, supported, and where accountability sits firmly with those responsible for the harm.”
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SASH – Sexual Abuse Support and Healing is a not-for-profit organisation that has been supporting the communities of Te Tau Ihu for more than 40 years, standing alongside survivors of sexual harm with care, skill, and understanding.
“Our team of specialised therapeutic social workers help people find their way through the healing process, walking beside survivors and their whānau every step of the way.”
SASH offers free, confidential, and professional support to anyone – regardless of gender, age, background, or when the harm occurred.
SASH services include acute crisis response, therapeutic case management, and dedicated court support – ensuring no one must face the system alone.
Sexual violence is an umbrella term that includes any type of unwanted sexual contact – including sexual assault, harassment, and abuse.
“At SASH, we recognise that healing looks different for everyone. Our role is to walk alongside people on that journey, providing safe, compassionate support and helping individuals and whānau move from the impact of harm toward healing and hope.”
Sexual Abuse Support and Healing
Phone: 0800777929
Referrals can be easily made through our website: www.sash.co.nz
