SAPR down day focuses on Duty to Intervene

by Airman 1st Class Jacob Jimenez
62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

5/28/2014 - JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash.  -- Operations on McChord Field fell silent May 22, as Team McChord Airmen and civilians spent the day discussing how to combat sexual assault in the Air Force.

The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response down day is a Department of Defense initiative to reiterate zero tolerance of sexual assault and focus on fostering a climate of dignity and respect.

The SAPR down day focused on the theme "Duty to Intervene", the power of one and instilling a culture of dignity and respect.

"It's important to create a culture where we do not facilitate nor tolerate an atmosphere where unprofessional or offensive behavior is accepted," said Col. David Kumashiro, 62nd Airlift Wing commander, speaking on the importance of creating a culture of dignity and respect.

Col. Anthony Davit, 627th Air Base Group commander, concurred and spoke on how Airmen can intervene.

"Don't tolerate the inappropriate jokes and behavior," said Davit. "That is sexual harassment and it has no place in the Air Force. Where there is sexual harassment, there is sexual assault."

Throughout the event Airmen were briefed on SAPR facts and statistics, which included statistics of how often sexual assaults go unreported and reporting options available to victims.

"I want to make sure victims are aware of the help that is available to them and the actions they can take to help us bring perpetrators to justice," said Kumashiro.

During the event Airmen and civilians heard from other speakers and took part in various games and raffles. Games were based around the day's theme "Duty to Intervene" and knowing your Airmen.

The event's closing comments were given by Kumashiro.

"I am confident we have what it takes to overcome these challenges and make a real difference," said Kumashiro. "The difference happens through the power of one to intervene."

After the event, Airmen and civilians broke off into their respective units to participate in teambuilding activities and discuss bystander intervention strategies.

For more information on the Air Force Sexual Assault and Prevention programs, visit: http://www.sexualassaultpreventionresponse.af.mil/index.asp