A proclamation arrived at my desk from Gov. David Paterson's office stating that April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. I appreciate the fact that the governor's office recognizes the importance of setting aside a month for thinking of and supporting victims of sexual assault.

Last week as the rain came and the weather started feeling warmer, my thoughts turned to spring and the new growth and promise that this season holds.

As I think of that rebirth and reawakening of life, I see that it makes sense to set aside April as the month to celebrate the survivors and thrivers who are all around us.

Victims of sexual assault, who go on with their lives to become survivors and thrive as individuals experiencing their own strength to overcome trauma, symbolize the rebirth and growth that spring exemplifies. Just as the daffodils and crocus struggle to break through the earth and debris covering them, the survivors of sexual assault and abuse must push through the feelings of self- doubt and trauma that they have experienced. And just as the flowers emerge with vibrant brilliance, the survivors of assault and abuse take on their own glow and beauty.

I see April as a time to honor and recognize these individuals among us who have faced betrayal and violation and yet grow as individuals. Paterson's proclamation states: “Sexual assault is a despicable crime that affects victims, families and our entire society” and that “every person in New York state has the right to live free from unwanted, non-consensual sexual contact, and our children especially must be protected from all sexual violence.”

The proclamation further states that we are “committed to providing quality services to sexual assault survivors in order to help them overcome the enormous trauma.” Individuals, law enforcement, the district attorney's office and agencies like SAVAR of Cayuga Counseling Services have taken that call to commitment seriously. Our community responds to that commitment to support survivors of sexual assault and abuse. I see that demonstrated in two events in April which seek to show victims' of violence that we want to stand beside them in their struggle to rise beyond the trauma of their victimization.

More than Java with the Gents, to be held April 9, is one of the events in which members of the community come together to support the work of SAVAR (Sexual Assault Victim's Advocate Resource). The Master of Ceremonies for “Java” is our sheriff, Dave Gould, who has long been an advocate for victims of sexual assault and abuse.

The recipient of the “SAVAR Gold Award” this year is Carrie Kresler, the victim advocate from the district attorney's office, who first came to our attention years ago when she volunteered as an advocate for SAVAR.

Those who have attended Java in years past know that what is most impressive are the gentlemen who serve as gents. These gentlemen represent agencies, services and businesses in our community. The fact that they give of their time to assist in this event is significant of the commitment that they make in their lives to support the work of SAVAR.

What is also impressive to me is how generous businesses, stores and restaurants in our area have been to donate items for the silent auction, which is part of the event.

The second event honoring survivors of sexual assault and abuse is the Take Back the Night march and rally to be held April 30.

The sight of members of the community coming together to “take a stand against violence” is inspirational to me and to all those who attend.

As you look to the joy of spring, please remember those we honor this month. Let us dedicate ourselves to an awareness that brings increased safety to our children and increased support of those among us who struggle to overcome the trauma of victimization.

Rosa Grube is an education coordinator for SAVAR of Cayuga Counseling Services.