Competition and rivalry aside, universities across North Carolina came together on Monday to stand in solidarity against sexual assault as part of a statewide day of action.
The UNC-system Association of Student Governments dedicated the day to an “It’s On Us” campaign — based on the notion that all campuses are affected by sexual assault. Anita Simha, ASG vice president for campus community, said the campaign promotes awareness of the issue.
“I think it is pretty obvious that sexual violence is a prevalent and important issue to combat on university campuses,” Simha said. “We hope that spreading awareness will keep the issue in the back of people’s minds so that it will come to the forefront when they have the chance to be an active bystander or educate peers.”
ASG, which is funded by an annual $1 student fee and advocates for the 17 UNC-system schools, encouraged each university to participate. The organization printed “It’s On Us” T-shirts and distributed them to each school to get students involved.
East Carolina University is dedicating an entire week — April 13-17 — to the cause. Jake Srednicki, ECU student body president, said rape in college communities is not acceptable and he hopes this campaign will stimulate a change.
“We hear about victims that are afraid to talk about it because people won’t believe them or will label them,” he said. “We are trying to create an atmosphere where students are willing to come out and talk about it so that it can be reported and justice can be served.”
Srednicki said his goal is raising awareness and making students aware of the resources available for the treatment and prevention of sexual assault.
“Every year, 25 percent of our student body is brand new to the school,” he said. “Our community is always changing so we must make sure to shed light on ways to stay safe.”
Winston-Salem State University promoted the campaign Monday by playing an “It’s On Us” video in the breezeway that is a major gathering area, along with handing out ASG’s t-shirts.
