UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State’s Relationship Violence Outreach, Intervention, and Community Education (R-VOICE) Center will host a series of events throughout April in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.
This year’s theme, “25 Years Stronger: Looking Back, Moving Forward,” highlights the resilience of survivors and the collective efforts of communities working to prevent sexual violence. At Penn State, that work builds on the R-VOICE Center’s 40-year history of providing survivor advocacy, prevention education and outreach.
“As we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month this April, we honor both the national theme and the 40 years that the R-VOICE Center has supported survivors at Penn State,” said Yvette Willson, director of the R-VOICE Center. “Sexual assault continues to impact too many students. Addressing it requires a shared commitment to speaking up, challenging harmful behaviors, intervening when something feels wrong, and supporting survivors with compassion.”
Throughout April, the R-VOICE Center, a unit in the divison of Student Affairs, will collaborate with campus and community partners to offer programs that center survivor experiences, promote education, and encourage community accountability.
Planned events include:
Take Back the Night — 6 to 8 p.m., April 1, Old Main Lawn. The rally and march, led by Lambda Theta Alpha with support from the R-VOICE Center and Centre Safe, will provide space for survivors to share their experiences, access resources and participate in a campus march followed by a vigil.
In Full Voice benefit concert — 7 to 10 p.m., April 4, Freeman Auditorium. Proceeds will support Centre Safe, which provides free and confidential services to individuals affected by sexual and relationship violence in Centre County.
“What Were You Wearing” exhibit — 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 10, HUB TV Lounge. The exhibit challenges misconceptions about sexual violence through personal stories and recreated outfits from members of the Penn State community.
“This Is What It Feels Like” installation — 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 14–15, HUB-Robeson Center Auditorium Lounge. Created by artist Terra Lopez, the immersive installation addresses catcalling and street harassment and encourages reflection and dialogue.
Let’s Tac‘Obout Sexual Health — 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., April 14, Lion’s Lair (HUB 008). Hosted in collaboration with University Health Services, the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity and the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, the program will include panel discussions and performances focused on sexual health, consent and campus resources.
Honoring Survival — 3 to 5 p.m., April 22, Pasquerilla Spiritual Center Memorial Lounge. The annual event recognizes survivors and the communities that support them.
Men Against Violence Walk — 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., April 22, beginning at Old Main Plaza. The walk brings together men and allies to raise awareness and demonstrate a commitment to ending sexual violence.
Denim Day — April 29, with tabling from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at HUB tables near the Pollock entrance. The international campaign raises awareness about victim-blaming and supports survivors.
The month will conclude with a moderated conversation featuring Tarana J. Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement, from 6 to 7 p.m. April 30 in Freeman Auditorium.
All events are open to Penn State students, faculty and staff. Additional information about resources, education, and prevention efforts is available through the R-VOICE Center.
“Our community is strongest when we act together,” said Willson. “Together we can create a culture where every student is safe, valued, and heard.”
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.