“Break the Silence, Stop the Violence”
A public speak-out forum and a candlelight remembrance
04/12/04

LSUS, in conjunction with the YWCA of Northwest Louisiana, is sponsoring an event to promote the increased awareness and prevention of sexual assault in our community. April is national Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The event will be held Tuesday, April 27, from 7-8:30 p.m. on the LSUS Mall in front of the University Center. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the University Center Theater.

Statistics warn that in the U.S. there is a rape every 21 hours on a college campus. About 3 percent of all college women are victims of rape or attempted rape every year. Statistics for all women in America show that about one-third are victims of sexual assault and of these more than 80 percent of the attackers are known by or related to their victims. This is why it is vital to increase public awareness and get our community to make safety from rape and sexual assault a high priority.

LSUS is dedicated to this cause and believes that the “Break the Silence, Stop the Violence” night will be a valuable step toward reducing the number of sexual assaults in the community. The evening will consist of speakers from law enforcement and other fields that deal directly with issues related to sexual assault. There will also be an open forum for those who wish to speak out and express personal interest or concerns on this topic. After this, candles will be lighted to remember the victims and show our united dedication to preventing these violent crimes.

For more information or to volunteer to help with the event, please contact the LSUS Counseling Center at 797-5365 or asibley@lsus.edu