One choice made can change someone’s life.
The University Counseling Center (UCC) highlighted this through a presentation called “Power of One,” seeking to promote sexual assault awareness, on Sept. 8 in the Student Union Theater.
“In a comic book you have heroes and victims, but no one ever talks about the everyday guy stepping in to help,” said Lt. Patrick Gipson of the University Police Department (UPD). “Many people simply don’t know what to do about sexual assault, but tonight we’re going to talk about bystanders.”
The program was split into two parts. A video hosted by “Twilight” star Kristin Stewart that featured real-life sexual assault scenarios comprised the first portion and ended early due to technical difficulties. The second part was a PowerPoint presentation that included input from the audience.
The presentation focused on personal responsibility, offering pointers to both male and female students on how to avoid bad situations and how to help keep themselves and friends from becoming victims of sexual assault.
“This presentation is different because historically programs have targeted women, but we figured it’s time to educate men also,” said Gipson.
“I was kind of scared to attend being a man, it struck me as a women’s presentation but you can always learn,” said Mark Lawrence, a mass communication major.
Actions such as using the buddy system, not becoming too intoxicated and intervening when a situation arises that may lead to sexual assault were offered up as simple yet effective ways for students to protect themselves and others.
“Instead of confronting the male individual who is possibly going to take advantage of an intoxicated girl, you could tell him that his car is being keyed outside and quickly remove the girl from the situation,” said Paige Moody of the UCC.
The program offered some startling statistics about sexual assault on college campuses, and though the crowd often responded with laughter to the serious statements, Gipson’s strong words quickly silenced the light-hearted audience members.
“One in three women will be raped in their life-time,” said Gipson. “That’s your mom, your sister and your girlfriend. Which do you choose? You guys that are laughing should consider that the women here are looking at you like men who won’t respect them.”
According to the presentation, 90 percent of sexual assault victims are women. College women are four times more likely to be sexually assaulted, and women are four times more likely to be victimized in the first six to eight weeks of their freshman semester.
“The decision to report is always up the victim, but unfortunately many girls blame themselves for what has happened,” said Gipson.
An estimated one in ten sexual assaults is ever reported, and fewer reported to the police.
More information on the UCC or appointment scheduling can be obtained by calling 985-549-3894. Assault and other emergencies can be reported to the UPD by calling 985-549-2222.