By Joseph Cyr
Staff Writer
HOULTON, Maine — The blue spheres floating through the air of downtown Houlton were not the result of a children’s birthday party gone awry. Instead, the floating balloons were meant to raise awareness for a national problem that also affects those in the Shiretown — sexual assault awareness.
“Since April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, it is the perfect time for us to rally together as a community to prevent and support those who have experienced rape, child sexual abuse, stalking, sexual harassment, and other types of sexual violence,” said Bonnie Dickison of AMHC Sexual Assault Services.
Houlton High School senior Danicka Fitzpatrick sang at Tuesday’s event as the balloons were released.
Tuesday’s event was the first of several planned throughout Aroostook County. Activities for the month include: a Zumba class on April 6; a cup of coffee or espresso at the “Cup Café” on April 14 or run/ walk in the annual “Break the Silence” race on April 28.
“Take a moment to observe a ‘Clothesline Project’ displayed in the community, wear jeans in support of ‘Denim Day,’ wear something teal each Tuesday for ‘Teal Tuesdays,’ tie a teal ribbon to the car antenna or display one at home or place of business,” said Dickison. “Whatever activity someone chooses to become involved with is helping to make a difference.”
The Maliseet Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services and AMHC are asking for the community to help turn the town teal during the month of April.
“Let’s take a stand as a community to end sexual violence and support survivors,” said organizers. “It’s time … to talk about it! Connect. Respect. Prevent sexual violence. Together, we can make a difference,” said Dickison.
The Houlton Band of Maliseet Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services and AMHC Sexual Assault Services have planned several activities to provide everyone an opportunity to become involved and stand up against this heinous crime.
The Houlton Police Department has joined the campaign for preventing sexual assault by displaying teal ribbons on its cruiser antennas as well as magnetic “End Sexual Violence”ribbons on the sides of the vehicles.
For more information about any of these events contact: Bonnie Dickison at 532-6523 or Katie Bell at 532-3000.
