Today@Sam Article

SHSU To Host Events To Combat Sexual Assault

April 3, 2018
SHSU Media Contact: Hannah Haney

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and a variety of Sam Houston State University campus resources including, law enforcement, medical and mental health professionals, prevention advocates, survivors and allies are working together to raise awareness and to remind each person in the community that their voice has power. 

SHSU's SAAM Committee provides numerous survivor, bystander and prevention resources year-round but throughout the month of April, there are multiple opportunities for organizations to participate and learn.

“April is a time to reinforce the efforts and education we have done throughout the year as well as give support to those who may have experiences related to sexual violence,” Director, Jeanine Bias Nelson from the Office of Equity and Inclusion said. 

For senior Kennedy Lundberg, who serves as a 2018 SAAM committee chair and a “Not On My Campus” Advocate, she believes that efforts of the #MeToo movement have made an impact on this year’s theme.

“Now more than ever survivors are finding that they're able to speak up and have their narratives accepted more readily because of the movement. The dialogue is starting to change and more people are starting to pay attention and seek information about the issue, so it is important to continue to provide answers and celebrate survivors,” Lundberg said.

Some event highlights include the opening of the exhibit, “Undressing My Voice,” in the Lowman Student Center Art Gallery on April 4. Running through April 13, the art aims to bring awareness to victim blaming.  In addition, the Office of Health Promotion will be conducting free HIV/Syphilis testing for SHSU students at the Student Health Center April 11 and 12. All information will be confidential and vouchers will be given to students who are interested in further STI testing. The month will close with “Denim Day” and the “Take Back The Night” rally where individuals are encouraged to wear denim to protest sexual assault on April 25.

For more information, please visit the SHSU Title IX website or call the Title IX Office at 936.294.3080.

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