Our analysis of sexual assault
Le Regroupement québécois des centres d'aide et de lutte contre les aggressions à caractère sexuel (CALACS) is a feminist group. The women composing its ranks recognize and act against different forms of oppression experienced by women, specifically, sexual assault and the various factors which cause it.

Based on our feminist analysis, we define sexual assault as an act of domination, abuse of power and of violence, perpetrated mainly by men against women and children.

To sexually assault is to impose attitudes, remarks or sexual gestures against a person's will. The victim often knows the assaulter. He uses different methods of manipulation : emotional blackmail, intimidation, threats, verbal, psychological, physical, or sexual violence, all in order to maintain the victim in silence. Sexual assault can take different forms : incest, sexual harassment, obscene calls, sexual aggression (in childhood, as an adult, by a professional), exhibitionism, voyeurism, pornography…

Our feminist analysis is an integral part of our work, that is our practices and interventions.

1. Definition of sexual assault
   
   
2. Extent of the problem
   
   
3. Backdrop…

• Violence against women
  
• At the heart of a patriarchal society
  
• Sexual assault: a means of controlling women
• Vulnerability:
  • The lack of information and understanding of the problem
  • Women's dependence on men
  • The isolation of women
    • Final analysis
      
      

4. Consequences of sexual assault

• Social consequences
• Individual consequences
  
  

5. Myths and prejudice in face of reality

• Sexually assaulted women
• The assaulters
  
  

6. Social responsibility and sexual assault