April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) nationwide. The University community is invited to join the many events held throughout the month that promote the importance of raising awareness about, growing education around and supporting those impacted by sexual and relationship violence.
The Hall of Languages lit up in teal for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
“Commemorating Sexual Assault Awareness Month on college campuses is essential to raising awareness, supporting survivors and fostering a culture of prevention,” says Leslie Skeffington, Barnes Center at The Arch assistant director for sexual and relationship violence prevention. “Our events are designed to build community among survivors and allies, offering spaces for connection, healing and solidarity as students navigate the final stretch of the semester.”
Those seeking to show solidarity and support, alongside survivors, at any stage of their healing journey are invited to participate in Sexual Assault Awareness Month events. Visit the Sexual Assault Awareness Month website for a complete list of events and details.
Each year, the University recognizes and participates in Take Back The Night, a global event that brings community members together to speak out about sexual violence, relationship violence and other forms of interpersonal violence. This year’s event will take place on Thursday, April 10, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. in the Panasci Lounge at the Schine Student Center.
“This year’s Take Back The Night continues the work of reimagining and recentering students in this long-standing annual event. We have a great group of students planning the event and have received strong support from the Student Association, fraternity and sorority organizations and registered student organizations on campus,” says Virginia Evans, Barnes Center at The Arch staff therapist and sexual and relationship violence coordinator.
“Highlights of this year’s event include student performances, a fashion show, community art projects and a Survivor Speak Out. We will close the evening with a collective healing activity. We look forward to honoring survivorship with our entire campus community on April 10, during Take Back The Night!” Evans says.
For more information or to request accommodations, please call the Barnes Center at The Arch at 315.443.8000 or email BarnesCenter@syr.edu.
