The UCSD community is recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month throughout April to raise awareness about sexual violence and to educate communities and individuals about their role in prevention. The month has been recognized on campus since 2007.
“It’s important that we continue to raise awareness about sexual assault prevention and the campus resources we provide for students, staff and faculty,” said school Chancellor Pradeep Khosla. “I appreciate the hard work of our campus members, from numerous organizations and departments, who organized the many events and programs for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.”
The remaining events for the month include: “The Purity Myth” film screening, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 14, the Women’s Center, “The Purity Myth,” based on Jessica Valenti’s book of the same name, centers around the societal focus of linking morals to sexual behavior rather than values like honesty, kindness and altruism. Following the film, there will be a discussion on the various views of sexuality.
4th annual SAAM 3-k walk-run, 5 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 16, Library Walk, Members of the campus and surrounding community are invited to take a stand against sexual violence in a fun 3-k walk/run through campus. The event will feature music, raffle prizes and refreshments. Registration is $5 for UCSD students and $10 for community members. All proceeds benefit support group activities for UCSD students affected by sexual assault. Registration at the event starts at 5 p.m. Gender Buffet: “Fifty Shades of No,” noon to 1:30 p.m., Friday, April 17, The Women’s Center. These interactive workshops take place every Friday. Throughout the month of April, they will focus on moving toward a “culture of consent.” The Gender Buffet on April 17 will promote discussion on the impact the “50 Shades of Grey” book and movie is having on the issues of sexual and dating violence. Take Back the Night, 6:15 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, April 22, Price Center Plaza. UCSD’s commemoration of Sexual Assault Awareness Month culminates with Take Back the Night, recognized annually with hundreds of events held in more than 30 countries. The event provides a forum for the UCSD community to speak up against sexual assault and to support survivors. This year’s keynote speaker is Aishah Shahidah Simmons, an award-winning feminist, independent documentary filmmaker, writer, lecturer and activist based in Philadelphia.
In 2009, President Obama became the first president to nationally proclaim April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
For more information on the events, go to saam.ucsd.edu.