Building Awareness During Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Last Wednesday, colorful T-shirts were hung in WCU’s Quad and along its perimeter for the annual Clothesline Project (see photo) in support of women who suffer domestic abuse. Sponsored by the Center for Women’s & Gender Equity (CWGE), the Clothesline Project is a free living arts display created by members of the community impacted by interpersonal violence. It has been in existence since 1990 and now counts more than 500 projects nationally and internationally.
The University continues to work on spreading support and awareness of women’s issues with the annual Take Back the Night event on Wednesday, April 26, from 6 to 9 p.m. beginning at the Ram Statue at Church Street and Rosedale Avenue. Take Back the Night encourages community members to take a visible and vocal stand against sexual violence. The goal is to express support for those who have experienced sexual violence or harm, learn about resources, and support a safer campus community for everyone.
The event begins with speeches from a peer educator from CWGE and a staff member from the Crime Victims Center of Chester County. Afterward is a march to Ram Park on the west side of the Sykes Student Union parking lot, where a speakout for survivors of sexual and domestic violence will be held. The speakout is optional and intended to be more private; people aren’t required to share anything about their identity to participate.
New this year, a community care centered alternative event will be offered in the Science and Engineering Center Room 300 (the bridge). There will be games, arts and crafts, movies, and food (pasta, snacks, and dessert) catered by Carlino’s. This quiet space is intended for those who have sensory needs or those who feel that they aren’t ready to participate in the traditional Take Back the Night march and speakout.
Since 1974, WCU’s Center for Women’s & Gender Equity has advocated for gender equity issues in collaboration with the campus community. The center actively promotes and advocates for a campus community that values the safety, equality, and intellectual advancement of women and other historically marginalized groups. For additional information, visit RamConnect or contact cwge@wcupa.edu.
