There has been extensive focus on sexual assault in the mainstream media lately. The rise of movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp has put increasesd emphasis on this issue, especially assault and harassment in the workplace and in Hollywood. It might be tempting to drown out the constant stream of allegations of sexual assault and even to become desensitized to stories and assault, harassment or abuse.
April is sexual assault awareness month, and we need to, especially this month, make a conscious effort to remember sexual assault victims and openly stand up against rape culture. It is precisely because of the culture we are living in that we need to remember sexual assault awareness month even more.
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center reported that one in three women will experience some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime. One in six men will experience some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime. One in five women will be raped at some point in their lives. One in 71 men will be raped at some point in their lives.
This is an issue that affects us all. Based on those odds, every one of our readers likely knows someone that has been a victim of sexual assault or harassment.
In addition, more than 90 percent of sexual assault victims on college campuses do not report the assault. $122,461 is the lifetime cost of rape, per victim; not to mention the emotional trauma that a person can carry around for a lifetime as well.
We can’t afford to tune out these voices that are calling out the devastating reality of sexual violence that society has too long ignored. Sexual assault awareness month is a vital time to show support for victims and raise awareness about sexual violence to prevent future instances from occurring.
Baylor recognized sexual assault awareness month by lighting the I-35 bridges, McLane Stadium, Pat Neff Hall and Fountain Mall in teal, the color that symbolizes sexual violence prevention, on April 3, the National Day of Action.
“What Were You Wearing, Waco?” is an exhibit featuring 18 stories of sexual violence and representations of what each victim was wearing at the time of their assault. It will be on display from April 16-26 in the Vara Martin Daniel Plaza next to the Bill Daniel Student Center.
Dr Pepper Hour on Tuesday, April 24, in Barfield Drawing Room will focus on information and resources available from Baylor’s Title IX Office, and will have staff in attendance.
The It’s On Us BU awareness video and live readers about the It’s On Us BU campaign will be featured during several Baylor athletic events in support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Baylor is giving students plenty of opportunities to recognize sexual assault awareness month, so don’t miss out on the chance to get involved. There are times it may be uncomfortable to have conversations about harrassment and assult, but but there is never a wrong time to remember and support victims of sexual violence.
If you or someone you know experienced sexual assault and is seeking resources, contact the Baylor Title IX office and or call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center reported that one in three women will experience some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime. One in six men will experience some form of contact sexual violence in their lifetime. More than 90 percent of sexual assault victims on college campuses do not report the assault. One in five women will be raped at some point in their lives. One in 71 men will be raped at some point in their lives. $122,461 is the lifetime cost of rape, per victim; not to mention the emotional trauma that a person can carry around for a lifetime as well.
Dr Pepper Hour on Tuesday, April 24, in Barfield Drawing Room will focus on information and resources available from Baylor’s Title IX Office, and will have staff in attendance.
