Sailors from Naval Technical Training Center (NTTC) Lackland learned about Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) while interacting and observing the Pure Praxis social theater group, Feb. 23.

Pure Praxis is a socially adaptive performance group contracted by the Department of the Navy Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program Office.

The group delivers a creative and unique workshop to encourage and motivate members to take a stand, become involved and intervene in potentially destructive behavior situations.

"The scenarios were real-world events that could actually happen, which made it easier to relate to the performers and know what to do if faced with a similar situation," said Utilitiesman 2nd Class Jonathan Cox, NTTC Lackland master-at-arms "A" school student.

Chief Master-at-Arms Brent Ransome, NTTC Lackland master-at-arms "A" school instructor, described the training as a great approach to bringing sexual assault issues to light in a way that one will never forget.

Students took the stage alongside Pure Praxis actors to show how they would stand up for their shipmates.

As an active participant reenacting a scenario, Steelworker 2nd Class Joseph Sanchez, a student at NTTC Lackland master-at-arms "A" school said, "The training was by far the best I have received and it provides junior Sailors with a chance to see active bystander intervention first hand."

"This topic is an incredibly important one that affects everyone," said Pure Praxis actor-advocate, Matt Gardner. "It is important to get the message out there rather than try to deal with it in a passive manner. It's an important conversation we need to have."

The goal of the Department of the Navy is to eliminate situations of sexual harassment and sexual assault from its ranks. This is achieved through a balanced focus on education, advocacy, and just adjudication, which promotes professionalism, respect and trust.

The Center for Security Forces is the parent command for Naval Technical Training Center Lackland. The Center provides specialized training to more than 20,000 students each year. It has 14 training locations across the U.S. and around the world where training breeds confidence.

For more information about the Center for Security Forces, visit us at http://www.navy.mil/local/csf.

For more news from the Center for Security Forces, visit us at www.navy.mil.

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