Turn Off the Violence: Raising a Voice to Rising Crime

Story by Broadside Correspondent Adam Sylvain. Photo courtesy of Sexual Assault Services.

On-campus sex offenses have risen over the last three years, according to George Mason University’s Annual Security Report. Last year alone, there were 12 reported offenses, a number that more than doubles when considering that an estimated 60 percent of sexual assaults are not reported.

To help raise awareness for victims, Sexual Assault Services is sponsoring Turn Off the Violence Week to encourage victims, friends and family members to seek support. Several hundred students participate in events during the week, which typically attracts some assault survivors seeking help.

Students can particpate early by taking part in the Northern Virginia Coalition Donation Drive to help fund transitional housing for domestic abuse victims and their families. The drive runs from Oct. 1 to 10. Donations can be brought by anyone to any of the following on-campus locations: Johnson Center, Room 240K, Enterprise Hall, Room 442, or Student Union Building I, Room 220.

The week of events, starting Oct. 14, is highlighted by the 11th Annual Clothesline Project, where over 500 t-shirts will be decorated and hung in dedication to female assault victims.

From Oct. 14 to 16, students can pick up a t-shirt to decorate and hang from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the grove area between Harris Theatre and SUB I. The T-shirts will be on display and all students are invited to come by and view the creative dedications.

On Oct. 15, beginning at 7 p.m., students are encouraged to attend the Take Back the Night Rally and March. Attendants will first gather in North Plaza in support of an end to sexual and domestic violence, and then will proceed with a peace march throughout campus. The rally is co-sponsored by the Feminist Ninja’s, a student group on campus with the purpose of educating members of the Mason community on women’s gender issues. Several speakers and a reception will also be featured during the event.

The following night, Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m., a support group will meet in the grove between Harris Theatre and SUB I. The event is called Survivor Space. Sexual abuse survivors are deeply encouraged to take the opportunity to gather and receive mutual support. Mason students are also encouraged to attend and voice opinions about sexual abuse and violence.

Male students are not forgotten during the week’s events. Friday, Oct. 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Paul Robeson Room 240A in the Johnson Center, There will be a Mason Strong Interest Meeting for men interested in being part of Mason’s new male ally group. The Mentors Advisory Board will also be available to share information and answer questions.

The White Ribbon Campaign is also an opportunity for men to take a stand against sexual assault and domestic violence. White Ribbons will be distributed at kiosk locations in the JC throughout the week. Sexual Assault Services is committed to providing direct services for survivors of sexual assault, stalking, dating or partner violence. SAS also serves to eductate the university community about such violence. Students can take advantage of these services at no cost and with the assurance that victim’s feelings and privacy are fully respected.