The Center for Sexual Assault Crisis Counseling and Education hosted a discussion to mark the start of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

The kickoff event was held at Town Hall.

The theme of the center's campaign this year is Embrace Your Voice. It focuses on the idea that everyone plays a part in making communities safe.                

The center hopes that the current climate in the country will encourage people to speak out against sexual violence.

Victims also came forward during the event to share their stories.

Last year, the center helped 540 clients with free counseling and educated 17,000 youth.