Trump declares April 'Sexual Assault Awareness Month'

Donald Trump (Reuters)
Donald Trump (Reuters)

US President Donald Trump has designated April 2017 as National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.

"Women, children and men have inherent dignity that should never be violated," Mr Trump, who is facing numerous allegations of sexual assault, said in a statement on Saturday (NZ time).

"We all share the responsibility to reduce and ultimately end sexual violence."

Mr Trump's election campaign last year was embroiled in controversy when a decade-old tape of him emerged bragging he could grab women "by the p***y" because of his wealth and fame.

"My administration... will do everything in its power to protect women, children and men from sexual violence," Mr Trump said.

"Together we can and must protect our loved ones, families, campuses and communities from the devastating and pervasive effects of sexual assault."

Multiple women have accused Mr Trump of sexual harassment over the years, including his ex-wife, Ivana. He has also been accused of walking into dressing rooms at beauty pageants while contestants were undressed, including Miss Teen USA.

Mr Trump has denied all the allegations.

He is also facing a defamation suit filed by former The Apprentice contestant Summer Zervos, after calling her sexual harassment claims against him "100 percent fabricated". Mr Trump's lawyers say he is too busy and the case should be postponed until after his term ends.

Newshub.