By Ariyana Griffin
Special to the AFRO
Coppin State University is partnering with their Title IX Office to host a series of events throughout April to recognize Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.
The U.S. Department of Justice states that “approximately 9.7 percent of undergraduate women at HBCUs report experiencing a completed sexual assault since entering college.”
According to a study conducted with End Rape on Campus, a majority of sexual assaults occur during the three specific months. September, which generally marks the first few weeks of a school year is called the “red zone” because most freshmen are sexually assaulted at this time. Another month noted for increased assaults in the study was the month of October, which often comes with Homecoming celebrations and related events, and the month of March, which typically is the month for Spring Break.
In response to the statistics, CSU is using the month of April to engage students with a month-long initiative focused on preventing sexual assault.
“As we enter Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, Coppin State University reaffirms its commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community,” said CSU President Anthony L. Jenkins, Ph.D., in a statement. “This month serves as a crucial opportunity to raise awareness, educate and advocate for the prevention of sexual misconduct in all its forms.”
Activities include some of the following events, all held on CSU’s West Baltimore Campus:
April 9 | 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Revealing a Problem: Human Trafficking in Baltimore
Location: Tawes Building Fireside Lounge
April 10 | 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Real Table Talk: Sex & Consent within Intimate Partner Relationships
Location: Health and Human Services Building Room 324
April 11 | 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | The Art of SELF-LOVE Paint Party
Location: J. Millard Tawes Center Ballroom
April 17 | 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. | Kicking Sexual ASSault Self Defense Class
Location: PEC 108
April 18 | 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | Take Your Power Back After Intimate Partner Violence
Location: Talon Center Atrium
April 19 | 7:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. | LOCK IN
Location: PEC 108
April 24 | 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | DENIM DAY
Location: Talon Center Lobby
April 25 | 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. | KINK & CONSENT
Location: Talon Center Lobby
CSU officials have notified students that their emotional and physical wellbeing is a priority to the institution. Confidential medical treatment and confidential counseling and support services are available for students through the university.
