Flagler Recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April
Apr 14, 2022
Sexual Assault Awareness Month began on April 1, and this year marks its 21st anniversary. Flagler College's Title IX office is hosting multiple events on campus throughout the month to highlight the importance of sexual assault awareness and prevention.
The month's recognition is rooted in the 1940s and 50s during the civil rights movement. Social activism around the issue of sexual assault continued into the 70s and 80s as support for victims increased and greater awareness rose of sexual assault, harassment, and violence.
As a result of these movements, April was dedicated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month officially in 2001.
"Talking about sexual assault prevention and awareness is always important," said Dr. Jess Kobryn, Assistant Dean of Students for Title IX and Equity at Flagler. Kobryn said she hopes the events offered will lead to discussions about prevention of the different types of sexual abuse and the resources available on our campus and in the St. Augustine community.
This month, the Flagler community is in full swing, embracing Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Campus events kicked off with a tabling session on April 6 to learn more about the month and how Title IX plays a crucial role in raising awareness.
On Tuesday, April 12, a survivor support group was facilitated by licensed mental health counselor Jackie Meredith of the Betty Griffin Center.
The events don't stop there. Additional clubs on campus are joining the effort to bring sexual assault awareness month to campus. For example, Julia Corrie, president of the college democrats at Flagler, plans to host a tabling event with information and resources for students.
"It's important to learn more about Sexual Assault Awareness Month because sexual assault happens every single day in America. If we can educate ourselves on the issue, we'll be better equipped to advocate for survivors," Corrie said. "We [college democrats] will be tabling on Monday, April 18, in the gazebo for students to grab snacks, info sheets, beads, and more."
On Wednesday, April 20, the Title IX office will join other campus groups to host a prevention and wellness day on the West Lawn to bring awareness and offer tools to the Flagler community on alcohol and drug abuse and sexual assault prevention. This event takes place from 11 am to 1 pm.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month wraps up on April 28 from 8–9 pm with a virtual global "Take Back the Night" event featuring survivor stories and sexual assault resources.
Along with these events, Kobryn wants students to be aware of the resources Flagler College offers for victims of sexual assault.
"The Title IX office can help students who have experienced any incident of sexual violence or sexual harassment and works closely with the counseling office and health serviced for any mental or physical health-related issues," Kobryn said.
She also shared that other offices on campus, like the Safety and Security team and residence life staff, can be a resource for those seeking assistance.
Sexual Assault Awareness month is not only a time to bring more attention to the issues surrounding sexual assault and violence. Event organizers also hope it will lead to discussions on campus about why the topic is important year-round.
If students, faculty, or staff are interested in learning more or want to help raise awareness about sexual assault, they should contact the Title IX office at titleIX@flagler.edu.
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