Myth: A sexual assault is only real if it’s reported to the police.
Fact: Sexual assault, harassment, threats, and voyeurism are all serious crimes. While survivors have the right to report to police at any time, many choose not to—for reasons like fear, shame, or uncertainty about how they’ll be treated. Not reporting does not make an assault any less real.
Why It Matters: Most sexual assaults are never reported. Survivors may hesitate because they fear they won’t be believed, worry about judgment, or feel unsure about what happened. Others may distrust the legal system or simply not want to relive the experience. No one should feel pressured to report if they’re not ready. Everyone deserves support, whether they choose to report or not.
How We Help: At Cedar Strong, we believe every survivor’s experience is valid. If you or someone you care about has been affected by sexualized violence, you don’t have to go through it alone. We provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can talk through what happened, explore your options, and access support—whether or not you choose to involve the police. Our team offers emotional support, advocacy, and connections to resources, honouring each person’s choices and needs.
More Information: Explore our Sexualized Assault Services section. If you need support or are looking for ways to help or volunteer, contact us at 604-869-5111.