By Sean Hancock
An event “Expressions of Healing” was held outside the student center on April 14. During this event, students were given pamphlets with resources about whom to talk to about sexual assault.
April is sexual assault awareness month, and UNCP is hosting campus happenings. Students took part in events that provided dialogue, education, and offered support.
“These types of events are important for everybody. It’s super important that we talk about these things and do it in the most respectful way possible, and also to educate people who don’t know about it,” said Ty’Jarell Brown, a student helping with the “Expressions of Healing” event. Ayana Mitchell, the Violence Against Women Act Grant Coordinator at UNCP, organizes these events.
“The purpose really is to just create a safe and reflective space for students and community members to engage and learn more about sexual assault. What it is, different resources that we have on and off campus, and being surrounded by individuals who can just provide some emotional support,” Mitchell said.
Over 60 students engaged with the “Expressions of Healing event,” and were given t-shirts, pins and wristbands. They had the opportunity to be educated on the effects of sexual assault and how to heal from it.
“I’ve had some conversations myself independently with some students who have experienced sexual assault, and we’re looking for some support and guidance as well, so I think overall it has been a really big push of education and support,” Mitchell said.
If you or anyone you know needs resources for sexual assault, you can reach out to:
UNCP Counseling & Psychological Services: 910.521.6202
Rape Crisis Center of Lumberton: 910.739.6278
Southeastern Family Violence Center: 910.739.8622
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
