Thursday, April 8, 2010

FAMU Schedules Several Events in Observance of Sexual Awareness Week

In an effort to combat sexual battery and recognize Sexual Awareness Month, Florida A&M University (FAMU) Office of Counseling Services is hosting its fourth Annual Clothesline Project from April 13 through April 16. The Clothesline Project is a display of T-shirts that speaks out against sexual assault. There also will be a These Hands Don’t Hurt display, which will be an exhibit of sheets that will give men a chance to place their hands in paint and leave their handprint to show that their hands will never hurt a woman.

“College students are a population that are highly vulnerable to being sexually assaulted,” said Allison Lockard, assistant director for Clinical Programs for the Office of Counseling Services. “One in four females are sexually assaulted during their academic career, yet it is a topic that we really don’t speak about on campus. This project serves as a visual reminder that affects everyone on this campus.”

White T-shirts, which were donated by the FAMU community, will be displayed around campus, stating strong slogans that may bring attention to the epidemic.

“Every year, we have gotten a great response with this event,” Lockard said. “It has become an event that students, faculty and staff expect to see each April. If someone is interested in making a shirt, they may stop by the Office of Counseling Services this week between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The T-shirts and markers are provided for free and we encourage faculty, staff and students to come make a shirt.”

Counseling Services, with other organizations, are hosting a weeklong series of events.

“This is an issue that affects men as well,” said Lockard. “One in six men are sexually assaulted during their lifetime. Everyone is encouraged to attend these events.”

The scheduled events are as follows:

Sunday, April 11, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Sexual Assault March - To certify April 11 through April 17 as Sexual Assault
Awareness Week on FAMU’s campus. (Locations TBA)

Monday, April 12, 7 p.m.
Panel Discussion - “Rape on HBCU College campuses”
Perry-Paige Auditorium

Tuesday, April 13, 6 p.m.
Documentary and Discussion - “No! The Rape Documentary”
Perry-Paige Auditorium

Wednesday, April 14, 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Self-Defense Class
Hansel E. Tookes Student Recreation Center

Thursday, April 15, 5:30 p.m.
Take Back the Night - Rally that features performers, speakers and words from victims
Eternal Flame

Friday, April 16, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Trivia and Giveaways
The Set

Saturday, April 17, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Community Service - Bringing about awareness to youth (ages 11-18) about
sexual assault awareness along with games and several other activities
Walker Ford Community Center

For more information, contact Allison Lockard at (850) 599-3145.

No comments: