PIP: About | CAWS North Dakota

Introduction to

Sexual & Domestic Violence Prevention

Sexual violence is a broad term that includes all unwanted sexual contact, including both physical and non-physical contact.

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, is abuse or aggression that occurs in a romantic relationship. Intimate partner refers to both current and former spouses and dating partners. It can include physical violence, sexual violence, stalking or psychological aggression.

Both sexual and domestic violence are serious public health issues that affect all communities and citizens of North Dakota, without regard for age, race, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or social, ethnic, geographic, or economic differences.

According to the Center for Disease Control’s 2015 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, about 1 in 4 women and nearly 1 in 10 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime and reported some form of IPV-related impact.

The good news is that prevention is possible and is happening in North Dakota. The Sexual and Domestic Violence Prevention Campaign, Prevention is Possible, is a partnership between CAWS ND, the North Dakota Department of Health, and First Nations Women’s Alliance. The goal is to increase sexual and domestic violence primary prevention work being done across the state and unite efforts behind a shared campaign.

Having conversations about sexual assault, learning how to be an active bystander, challenging behaviors that contribute to violence, and showing support for violence prevention efforts all contribute to ending sexual harassment, misconduct, and abuse in communities. Believing and supporting survivors is another important piece in ending sexual violence. Take a look and choose your one small action to help create safer environments for everyone in ND.

Sexual Violence in North Dakota

Domestic Violence in North Dakota