April is recognized nationwide as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in the U.S. This year, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is celebrating its 24th year of national recognition of this ongoing important social movement. The month aims to raise public awareness about sexual violence, promote prevention strategies and connect communities with support services.
According to the NSVRC website, this year’s SAAM theme is “Together We Act, United We Change.” This campaign highlights the importance of collective efforts to prevent sexual abuse, assault and harassment.
Departments across The University of New Mexico are uniting in April to recognize the month and support NSVRC’s mission within the Lobo community. UNM’s LoboRESPECT advocacy center, the Women’s Resource Center and Sigma Chi Fraternity will collaborate and co-host four unique events to help foster a supportive community and share UNM’s resources and prevention programs.
Day of Action Consent Fair: Tuesday, April 1, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Every April, LoboRESPECT hosts the Sexual Assault Awareness Month Consent Fair at the Student Union Building. Attendees can participate in consent-themed activities and receive information from advocacy centers and organizations across campus. They ask everyone to wear teal to show support for survivors of sexual assault and to raise awareness.
Why wear teal?
NSVRC has chosen teal as the designated color for people to express their support for survivors of sexual harassment and abuse. By wearing teal, you signify to others that you are a safe person to speak to and an advocate for prevention.
The Real Flex Conference
The Real Flex: Engaging Men & Masculine People in Violence Prevention Conference: Tuesday, April 8, Student Union Building
This conference is the first annual event of its kind, aiming to foster an open discussion with men and women on gender-based violence. It is open to all UNM students, alumni, staff, and faculty.
Sole Survivor: Tuesday, April 15, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Smith Plaza
Sole Survivor is an art installation that occurs every year where LoboRESPECT displays shoes to represent those who have survived sexual violence every year in the U.S.
Crafternoon: Tuesday, April 22, at the Women’s Resource Center
The Women’s Resource Center is hosting this special event to create a safe space for students and the UNM community to spend time together, discuss topics that are top of mind and be supported by advocates on campus.
The Grey Area Prevention Training
Since 2016, LoboRESEPECT has offered The Grey Area sexual assault prevention training program to all UNM students. This program results from UNM’s agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to refine its policies on sexual harassment and misconduct on campus.
The program consists of a one-time, mandatory session available online or in person. All students enrolled in a degree-granting program are required to complete it. Students who need to take the course will receive an email from the LoboRESPECT office with detailed information on how to sign up for a session.
For more information on these events, visit LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center and Women’s Resource Center websites.
