April is Sexual Violence Awareness Month (SVAM), and there are numerous events being sponsored by the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs. These events are meant to spark more awareness of sexual violence's prevalence in our society, especially on college campuses, and to emphasize the need for active citizen involvement to end sexual violence.

Starting the month out will be a Balloon Display today, Monday, April 2, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This visual representation will showcase statistics of sexual violence: one in four women and one in six men are survivors of sexual assault. Also today is an educational program in UC Rangos at 7 p.m. The topic is, "How to Help a Sexual Assault Survivor: What Men Can Do."

On Tuesday, April 10, there will be a book talk on Lucky by Alice Sebold (author of The Lovely Bones) from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the UC Peter-McKenna rooms. Dinner and a copy of the book are provided free of charge. Contact Joanna Dickert if interested.

A display of t-shirts created by individuals affected by sexual violence will be displayed in Merson Courtyard and the UC Pake room from 8 a.m to 5 p.m. on Friday, April 13. This "Clothesline Project" will also give other students an opportunity to make their own shirts to add to the display.

On Tuesday, April 17, there will be a presentation and discussion in UC McKenna from 4:30 to 6 p.m. titled, "Getting Your Swerve On: Does TBA = TMI?" This presentation will be focused on sex and the portrayal of sex on campus. Light refreshments will also be served.

A candlelight vigil will be held on Wednesday, April 25 at the Fence at 8 p.m. The vigil will be paying tribute to those affected by sexual violence.

The closing event of SVAM will be held on Friday, April 27 on the Cut. From 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., men are invited to "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes" by wearing high-heeled shoes to raise awareness about sexual assault and to show support for survivors. There will be free food and prizes.

If you have any other questions, feel free to contact Amanda Miskewicz or Jamie Edwards for more information.

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