A PROCLAMATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PISMO BEACH,
CALIFORNIA RECOGNIZING APRIL AS SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH WHEREAS, Sexual Assault Awareness Month calls attention to the fact that sexual assault is widespread and impacts every person in Pismo Beach; and WHEREAS, Lumina Alliance provides essential, lifesaving services for survivors, their children, and families throughout San Luis Obispo County including Pismo Beach; and WHEREAS, sexual assault can result in physical injury, psychological trauma, and even death; the devastating consequences of sexual assault can cross generations and can last a lifetime; and
WHEREAS, there is a need to focus on the individualized needs of sexual assault survivors; and
WHEREAS, the marginalization of certain groups in society, including undocumented individuals, transgender individuals, and those living with disabilities, increases their vulnerability to sexual assault; and
WHEREAS, Lumina Alliance continues to provide a safe environment to those affected by sexual assault with a 24-hour crisis line, advocacy, therapy, transitional and emergency housing, and prevention education, with the help of dedicated volunteers and professionals; and
WHEREAS, Lumina Alliance has had a dramatic increase of hotline calls by more than 30% over the past year and recognizes that more than 45% of women have experienced sexual violence in the United States, which accounts for 63,000 women in San Luis Obispo County; and
WHEREAS, Lumina Alliance serves as “A Bright Light During Dark Times” for survivors of Sexual Assault, illuminating a path toward safety and healing; and WHEREAS, the City of Pismo Beach strongly supports the efforts of Lumina Alliance, and recognizes how every segment of our society can work together to address sexual assault, and how to help survivors connect with services.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Pismo Beach hereby recognizes April 2026 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Dated this 7th day of April, 2026
________________________
Ed Waage, Mayor
Council Agenda 4-7-20261 4.A-1