Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Activism in the anti-gender violence movement goes back to the 1940s and 50s, where black women led the efforts in voicing the intersections of race and gender based violence. More wide activism around sexual violence began in the 1970s. This era founded the first rape crisis center in San Francisco in 1971 and the first Take Back the Night march held in 1978. In 1993, the first authorization of the Violence Against Women Act was passed after over a decade of activism by survivors and advocates. While awareness events such as marches and speak outs were widely held during the month of April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month wasn't officially recognized until 2001.
Kent State has been recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month since the early 2000s and has hosted events including Take Back the Night Walks, Men's March Against Violence, Speakers such as Tarana Burke, Katie Koestner and movie screenings such as "The Hunting Ground" and "The Voiceless." Additionally each April, there are opportunities for survivors to speak out and come together in healing and support.
University Events for 2025
Tuesdays throughout the month we will host Teal Tuesdays. Please wear teal and share on social media to show your support for survivors. #SAAMKSU2024