RISE Hosts Events During Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is observed in the U.S. each April. The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence, educate communities on preventing sexual assault and to offer public support for survivors in our communities.
Organized by the Risk Intervention & Safety Education (RISE) office, Texas Tech University’s SAAM Planning Committee includes multiple departments and offices at the university and in the Lubbock community. The committee has planned a comprehensive set of educational and awareness-raising events for SAAM.
In addition to campus-based events for Texas Tech students, faculty and staff throughout the month of April, Texas Tech is partnering with Voice of Hope and Women’s Protective Services (WPS) to educate and engage the Texas Tech and Lubbock communities.
“We understand that some of the material covered during SAAM may be upsetting for survivors and those who have been affected by violence or sexual trauma,” said Dane Rivas, RISE student assistant. “Many of the SAAM events will be staffed by licensed counselors to help anyone in need.”
Resources for the Texas Tech community can be found at the RISE office in Drane Hall, Room 217 during university business hours, or by emailing RISE. Students also may visit the Student Counseling Center during walk-in hours (12:30-3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday) or by calling (806) 742-3674 to schedule an appointment. The Texas Tech Crisis Helpline also may be accessed at any time by those affiliated with Texas Tech at (806) 742-5555.
In the community, Voice of Hope can provide resources for those affected by sexual assault. Lubbock community members may contact a local crisis line provided by StarCare at (806) 740-1414.
Highlights of Texas Tech’s SAAM programming are outlined below. A full list of relevant programming can be found on the RISE website.
Women’s Protective Services (WPS) Donation Drive, April 1–29
During April, RISE will collect donation materials for WPS. Items needed include blankets, towels, diapers and baby wipes. Items may be dropped off at several locations on campus, including at Transportation & Parking Services, the Robert H. Ewalt Student Recreation Center, the University Career Center and the RISE Office.
Visit RISE’s social media pages to find a complete list of materials to donate and where to drop them off: @TTURISE.
What Were You Wearing Lubbock? April 19 to June 2, Museum of Texas Tech University
This campaign is intended to combat the common rape myth that what someone is wearing causes them to be raped. People wearing all types of clothing are victims of sexual assault. By combating this myth, RISE is helping to raise awareness about sexual assaults to help prevent them from happening. The exhibit debuted April 5 at Lubbock’s First Friday Art Trail.
Denim Day, April 24
For the past 20 years, Peace Over Violence has run its Denim Day campaign on the last Wednesday in April in solidarity and recognition of SAAM. On April 24, the Texas Tech SAAM Committee is encouraging those in the Texas Tech and Lubbock communities to wear denim to show support for those affected by sexual assault in our community and start a dialogue around what we can do to help.
Email RISE for additional resources and stickers to participate in Denim Day. Post your #TTUDenimDay photo on social media and tag @TTURISE to be a part of the movement.
Take Back the Night, 6 p.m. April 24, Memorial Circle
Take Back the Night (TBTN) represents the earliest worldwide stand against sexual violence, especially violence against women. On April 24, Texas Tech’s Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance, with support from RISE, the Panhellenic Council, the Interfraternity Council and the SAAM Committee, will host the event consisting of speakers, a march and a candlelight vigil for survivors.
About RISE
RISE, a component of the Office of the Dean of Students at Texas Tech, aims to empower Texas Tech students to live vital, meaningful lives through comprehensive prevention education. For additional information, please contact RISE via email or visit the RISE website.
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