Honoring Survival: Transforming the Spirit — Thursday, April 4, at 4:30 p.m., 107 Pasquerilla Center.
This annual event, a collaboration between the Gender Equity Center and Centre Safe, honors the strength and resiliency of survivors of sexual, emotional and physical violence, and those who support them in their healing process. The intention is to bring these issues to light, focus on the courage and tenacity of the survivors, and highlight Penn State’s resources for those who are/have been victims of violence. Participants will have the opportunity to listen to the stories of survivors and those who support them through poetry, storytelling and music. In addition to stories, the event will feature a performance from Jessica Browing, accomplished pop and classical harpist. Additionally, Erin Carter, art therapy assistant teaching professor from Penn State’s College of Arts and Architecture and Megan Hutchens, licensed professional counselor from The Highlands, will be leading the group in individual empowering cardmaking and a collaborative wall hanging, utilizing stamps made from designs gifted by the Peace Paper Project, while providing an introduction to arts and wellness related to self-care.
"Take Back the Night" — Thursday, April 4, at 6 p.m., Old Main.
"Take Back the Night," led by Lambda Theta Alpha with support from the Gender Equity Center and Centre Safe, provides victims of rape and sexual assault with a space to share their stories and learn about resources. Rallying at Old Main Lawn, students will march to different locations around campus, including the Penn State library, East Halls, and Pollock Halls, stopping to allow individuals to speak up and share their stories, ending at Old Main Lawn with a glow-stick vigil. The first 50 attendees will receive a free "Take Back the Night" t-shirt to show their support and spread awareness during the program and walk.
"What Were You Wearing?" — Friday, April 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., 101 HUB.
“What were you wearing?" is an all too common and familiar question asked of victim survivors of sexual assault and violence by family, friends, community members, law enforcement, attorneys and more. This question is rooted in victim-blaming culture and the rape myth that victim survivors provoke perpetrators due to their behavior, whether that be how they dress, if they drank or consumed drugs, or if they go back to the individual's apartment. The reality is nothing a victim survivor does invites sexual violence or assault.
Our "What Were You Wearing?" Survivor Art Installation seeks to dispel this myth by collecting stories from our Penn State community members of what they were wearing when they experienced sexual violence and assault. View the stories and outfit recreations on display in the HUB and change your perspective on the causes of rape, learning how to promote consent culture and support for victim survivors in our community.
Men Against Violence (MAV) Walk — Sunday, April 7, at 2 p.m., HUB Lawn.
Too often sexual violence is seen only as a woman’s issue. In reality, sexual violence affects people of all gender identities. The Men Against Violence Walk aims to mobilize men to get involved in prevention efforts and play a positive role in creating change. Join in the movement by walking our mile-long march around campus to display your commitment to making our campus a safer place.
The event will begin with a kickoff and keynote speeches at 2 p.m. before we begin our march around campus. Walkers can check in, receive their free shirt, and create signs for the march starting at 1:30 p.m., prior to the event. While male participation is encouraged, all are welcome and encouraged to attend and promote! Grab a buddy, register and walk the route together! This event is sponsored by the Gender Equity Center and the Interfraternity Council. Registration is required.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month Moderated Conversation with Matt McGorry — Wednesday, April 10, at 6:30 p.m., HUB Heritage Hall.
Please note: Masks are strongly encouraged for this event due to a request by the speaker. The Gender Equity Center will be providing masks to all attendees to assist with this initiative.
Join the Gender Equity Center for a special moderated conversation with actor, activist, and intersectional feminist Matt McGorry. McGorry is a well-known actor recognized for his roles in the television series "Orange is the New Black," "How to get Away with Murder," and "Archive 81," and is also an ardent advocate and activist for various important causes and issues, including racial justice, gender equity and body positivity, to name a few. He will be discussing his journey to activism around power-based violence prevention and the role of men in the prevention of sexual violence. In conversation with a student moderator, he will cover the important topics of masculinity, consent, and bystander intervention to promote a culture free from sexual violence. Learn why "It’s On Us" to advocate for change and eliminate sexual violence from our communities.