Governor Mike Dunleavy proclaimed on April 1 that April 2026 will be recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Alaska. The proclamation marks the 25th anniversary of the observance and calls on Alaskans to work together to prevent sexual assault and support survivors.
The announcement highlights the ongoing issue of sexual violence in Alaska, noting that it affects people from all backgrounds across every community. The governor’s office cited data from the Alaska Felony Level Sex Offenses Report, which recorded 1,357 incidents statewide in 2024. Of these reported cases, more than half involved juvenile victims.
“Sexual assault violates a person’s sense of dignity, security, trust, and privacy, and is a devastating crime that affects people of all ethnic, cultural, and economic backgrounds in every community in Alaska, leaving lasting emotional, physical, and psychological scars,” Dunleavy said. He added that “every Alaskan deserves to live free of harm and without fear of sexual assault or abuse.” The proclamation also emphasized ongoing efforts by state authorities to enforce laws against sexual violence and provide resources for those affected.
The Office of the Governor has previously recognized community events through annual gatherings and proclamations honoring various groups such as veterans and first responders according to the official website. Since his election as the state’s twelfth governor in 2018—and subsequent reelection in 2022—Dunleavy has overseen initiatives focused on restoring trust in government while promoting business opportunities throughout Alaska according to the official website.
The governor’s office exercises authority across Alaska while maintaining an office in Washington D.C. for advocacy purposes according to the official website. Other services include assistance with state agency issues and handling requests for proclamations according to the official website.
In concluding his proclamation for Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Dunleavy called upon all residents “to come together to stand against sexual assault in our homes and communities,” reaffirming a commitment “to keeping our citizens safe” while increasing support for victims.
