April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), and California State University, Bakersfield is one of many university campuses providing programming in support of sexual assault survivors. It will also address how others can support and can continue to shed light on the matter.
The Office of Equity, Inclusion and Compliance, CSUB Wellness and the CSUB Division of Student Affairs are joining together for the scheduled programming in April.
“What it really focuses on is difference for every organization or college or community. For CSUB, I'm focusing on building a community for survivors of supports. I'm also building empathy throughout the campus community and just that awareness factor, because often these issues are not always talked about, but we know that it happens,” said CSUB Campus Advocate, Olivia Warren.
The virtual events have already begun with a giveaway and raising awareness via social media posts with the Clothesline Project, a visual display of violence statistics, explaining the significance behind each color that was posted.
Teal Day was another way to show support for survivors by wearing the color teal. There was also a day devoted to the benefits of yoga and journaling.
“I think it’s important within the CSUB community to build that awareness that it (sexual assault) happens,” said Warren.
The awareness surrounding sexual assault has grown in the last few years, but it can still be challenging for those who have experienced it to talk about.
“You can always seek help without having to report. You do not have to report to Title IX or the police to receive help from me. If it is someone outside of the CSUB community, they can always refer them to me and I'll refer them out from there --where to get help-- whether it's a child to an adult,” added Warren.
The following dates/times are the remaining events for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
- April 19 through April 21—Instagram takeover to see how fellow CSUB peers are spreading awareness;
- April 25 – What do you know about SAAM? Giveaway ends – the last day for students to post on their Instagram stories to enter the giveaway and raise awareness;
- April 26 – “Athlete A” – the campus community can tune in via Netflix Party and stay for a discussion after. This documentary focuses on the gymnasts who survived USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar’s abuse towards the young girls and women of the team. Giveaway winners from the month will also be announced;
- April 28 – Denim Day – a chance to wear denim with a purpose and show support for survivors; and
- April 28 – Wellness Chat – Noon to 1 p.m., a chance to hear Campus Advocate, Olivia Warren, discuss healthy relationships and consent.
“Just know that there are people on campus that care and that want the best for you -- to just be able to seek that help, whether it's counseling or just wanting to talk to someone,” said Warren.
This month is an opportunity to become more aware, educated and proactive on how to further discussion and make a change, not only in the CSUB and Kern County community, but overall.
For more information about the events this month or other services office through the Campus Advocate office, please visit the page via the Equity, Inclusion and Compliance website.
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