Photo from the 2025 Sexual Assault Awareness Month walk. (OTC)
Fergus Falls, MN – The Otter Tail County Violence Prevention Task Force, in partnership with Someplace Safe, the Fergus Falls Police Department, and the Otter Tail County Attorney’s Office, invite the public to join the third annual “I’m Saying NO MORE to Sexual Assault” Walk on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
The goal of the walk is awareness and to show the community’s support for sexual assault survivors. The event is free and everyone is welcome. It will begin with a short presentation at 1:00 p.m., in Spies Park in Fergus Falls.
This year’s presentation will discuss the intersection between sexual assault and suicide awareness. While a significant number of sexual assaults still go unreported, data reflects that survivors of sexual violence are at a notably higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
“The risk of suicide in survivors can occur at any point in a survivor’s journey—a suicide attempt can lead to a disclosure, or even years later a survivor may struggle with suicidal thoughts,” said Assistant County Attorney Christina Galewski. “By discussing the intersection of sexual assault and suicidal ideation we can bring hope to a survivor’s healing journey.”
Someplace Safe provides services locally in West Central Minnesota to nearly 4,000 survivors of crime each year, including victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and exploitation, human and labor trafficking, and other crimes such as harassment, stalking, elder abuse, and homicide. If you or someone you know needs help, call the 24-hour crisis hotline at 800-974-3359 or text 844-980-0169, where trained staff will listen and provide support.
Another resource is 988 Lifeline, a suicide and crisis lifeline that is available 24/7. This lifeline provides free and confidential one-on-one assistance and support for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts and other mental health challenges.
Participants may reserve an event T-shirt in their size to wear during the walk and throughout the year. Those interested in reserving a shirt (while available) can contact Christina at the County Attorney’s Office at 218-998-8400.
Story courtesy of Otter Tail County
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
