Wrapping up Sexual Assault Awareness Month

A student shows a note of support for victims of sexual assault at the Dane Talks: Debunking Rape Myths event. (Photo by Teah Sisti)

ALBANY, N.Y. (April 27, 2016) — As part of their month-long programming to recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the University’s Office of the Title IX Coordinator and Advocacy Center for Sexual Violence recently hosted Dane Talks: Debunking Rape Myths. The “Ted Talk-style” event featured ten presenters including area law enforcement, assault survivors, and health care experts.

The discussion was organized to raise awareness and dispel rape myths. These myths are wildly held stereotypical, prejudicial, and generally false beliefs about sexual violence that discourage reporting by victims and create barriers to ensuring the accountability of offenders.

The series of talks can be viewed here.

In addition, tomorrow at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center’s (PAC) Recital Hall, join the campus community for Sex Signals. The performance, a unique combination of improvisational comedy, education, and audience participation, explores how mixed messages, gender role stereotypes and unrealistic fantasies contribute to misunderstandings between the sexes. Stop by early and enjoy complimentary refreshments in the Futterer lounge outside the PAC theatre.

As the month’s activities culminate, the campus community will gather on Friday, April 29 from 1 – 3 p.m. at the Small Fountain to read the “Just Ask” postcards collected throughout the month at the Campus Center, in residence halls and at events. The personal accounts shared on these cards will help the community to continue this very important conversation about sexual violence started by the launch of the Just Ask campaign in September 2015.

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