The Illinois State University community is invited to take part in events throughout the month of April in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Sexual Assault Awareness Month helps raise awareness and support for those who experience sexual assault and other gender-based violence. Sexual Assault Awareness Month began in 1978 when the first Take Back the Night event was held in New York City. Over the past four decades, the awareness event has grown to encompass an entire month’s worth of activities.
This year’s National Sexual Assault Awareness Month theme is Embrace Your Voice. How we talk about sexual violence matters. When we change how we discuss this important issue, we work together to create a culture of respect, equity, and safety. We all have a role in ending sexual violence and are strongest when we raise our voices together. While one month isn’t enough to solve the serious and pervasive issue of sexual violence, the dedicated attention throughout the month of April energizes individuals and starts conversations that last.
There are many ways to embrace one’s voice, from speaking up in support of survivors to speaking out against victim blaming. Here is a list of ways to get involved this month to help work towards ending sexual violence. Organizations involved this year’s events include Health Promotion and Wellness, Student Government Association (SGA), Students Ending Rape Culture (SERC), Students’ Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (SPAN), Feminist Led Activists Movement to Empower (FLAME), ISU Pride, and YWCA Stepping Stones.
Campus Events
The 2018 Sexual Assault Awareness Month theme is Embracing Your Voice.
It’s on Us Week with SGA
April 2-6, various times and places
Check the Student Government Association’s Facebook page to stay up to date on various events taking place the first week of April.
NO! Movie & Panel
Tuesday, April 3, 6:45 to 9:45 p.m.
CVA 151
Co-hosted by ISU It’s On US Campaign, Student Government Association, Health Promotion and Wellness, & Association of Residence Halls
Additional Information
Consent Day
Tuesday, April 10, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Quad, Schroeder Plaza
Hosted by the Student Wellness Ambassador Team
Stop by the Quad at Schroeder Plaza to explore consent and its vital role in healthy relationships. Visit with campus student organizations, learn how to empower yourself to communicate consent, and take a pledge to committing to consent and helping end sexual violence.
Please check back! More campus events will be added as details are confirmed.
Community Events
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes
April 7, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.
Uptown Normal
Hosted by the YWCA of McLean County
Calling all men to Walk a Mile in Her Shoes! The goal of this event is to not only raise awareness about sexual violence but to improve gender relationships and appreciation for women’s experiences. This is a FREE event. Register at www.ywcamclean.org/walkamile2018.
Additional Information: https://www.facebook.com/events/607377212963177/
YWCA Teal Ribbon Ceremony
April 21, 1 a.m.–11:30 p.m.
McLean County Museum of History, Bloomington
Hosted by the YWCA McLean County
Additional information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1988793961163217/
Take Back the Night
April 26, 6–8 p.m.
McLean County Museum of History, Bloomington
Join YWCA McLean County Stepping Stones at Take Back the Night to raise awareness for sexual violence and to support survivors in their healing process. Hear from featured speakers and participate in a march through downtown Bloomington followed by a candlelight vigil. You don’t have to be a survivor, or even know a survivor, to attend. FREE event.
Hosted by the YWCA of McLean County
Additional information: https://www.facebook.com/events/450223622061082/
