Variety of events set for Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and as always, a variety of events are scheduled around the community to raise awareness about sexual violence and honor survivors. Join us at an event (or more!) during this important month! All of the events below are also featured on the printable 2011 SAAM calendar.
DVSAS Events:
Friday, April 1: On Friday, April 1, we will be hosting the annual Victory Over Violence Luncheon.The program will focus on Men as Survivors, Supporters, and Solutions and will feature County Council Member Ken Mann as the master of ceremonies, a keynote address by Bellingham High School Principal Steve Clark, DVSAS client speaker, and more. Northwood Hall, buffet luncheon 11:30-12:00, program 12:00-1:00pm. Free to attend, donations requested.
Saturday, April 16: The American Legion Post 7 is hosting a Western-themed fundraiser for DVSAS. 1688 W. Bakerview. Event begins at 5:00 PM. Tickets are $15.00 at the door or online and includes dinner, dessert dash, live and silent auctions, and line dancing.
Wednesday, April 20: This brown bag lunch on domestic minor sex trafficking will focus onc the commercial sexual exploitation of American children within US borders. Children can be sexually exploited through prostitution, pornography and/or erotic entertainment. Not only are children exploited by pimps and buyers, they might be exploited by friends or family members. This lunch time training offered at DVSAS will explore the issue of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking and provide information about the local organization Access Freedom.
Friday, April 29: In 1999, the Italian Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction because the victim was wearing jeans. The Justices stated that since removing jeans “...is impossible if the victim is struggling with all her might,” the victim must have assisted the attacker in removing her jeans, which they felt implied consent. Denim Day began as a heated response to this verdict, but is now a day to raise awareness about sexual violence. Businesses and community members are encouraged to bring attention to the issue by taking part in Whatcom County’s Fifth Annual Denim Day by wearing jeans. For more information and registration for Denim Day, contact DVSAS at or visit www.dvsas.org/denimday.
Friday, April 29: Want your wardrobe to make a difference? Make a statement by participating in the first annual DVSAS Denim Day clothing swap on April 29th from 5:30-7:30pm at DVSAS. Bring $5 and items of clothing you no longer wear (or $7 without clothes to contribute) to swap them for some great new pieces. All proceeds go to DVSAS.
Western Washington University (WWU) Events:
April 13, Night of Testimony: Hosted by Western Washington University’s Women’s Center. A night for sexual assault survivors and allies to come together and share their stories. 6-8pm, WWU-Academic West Building, Rm 304 . Free.
Thursday, April 14: The annual Take Back the Night Rally and march will be hosted by WWU’s Women’s Empowerment and Violence Education. Celebrate Sexual Assault Awareness Month by taking part in this inspiring event. Rally begins at 7pm, March at 8:30pm, WWU-Performing Arts Center. Free.
Weeklong, April 25-29: Western Women's Festival is an annual time to celebrate and honor all survivors of violence and all that women are. WWF features UNBOUND: An open mic exploration of women’s triumphs and struggles with their bodies with Body Empowerment group at the Underground Coffeehouse, a workshop exploring and discussing Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health with WWU’s Peer Sexual Health Educators, and an incredible performance entitled SOARS: Story of A Rape Survivor that showcases healing through dance, spoken word, and photography. All events are held on WWU's campus and are open to all community members. For more information, contact Devlin O’Donnell at (360)650-7982 or email .