In recognition of April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Michigan State University's student-led It's On Us planning committee has announced Kimberly Corban, a nationally recognized advocate for survivors of sexual assault, as the keynote speaker for this year's Spring Week of Action. The week of events kicked off April 8 and will run through April 12.
The Spring Week of Action, themed “BEE-lieve Survivors,” aims to raise awareness about sexual assault, connect community members with campus resources and amplify prevention efforts within the MSU community.
Corban’s keynote address, scheduled for Tuesday, April 9 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the McDonel Hall Kiva, promises to be a highlight of the week, offering insight into her empowering journey as a survivor and the critical importance of advocacy and support.
“The committee has planned a week of fun, low-stress activities that we’re hoping will draw the community into a conversation about what is being done on campus to prevent sexual violence and how they can get involved,” said Jodie Goodman, prevention specialist with the Prevention, Outreach and Education Department and chair of the It's On Us planning committee.
Throughout the week, students, staff and faculty are invited to participate in a series of inclusive events designed to reaffirm the collective commitment to combatting campus sexual assault. From engaging activities like making tie-dye tote bags and decorating self-care journals to informative sessions such as Spartans Start by Believing and the Student Activism Symposium, there is something for everyone to get involved in.
- Tuesday, April 9: Tie-Dye Totes, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., Wells Hall People’s; Guest speaker Kimberly Corban, 6 to 7 p.m., McDonel Hall Kiva (open to all)
- Wednesday, April 10: Spartans Start by Believing, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Brody Square; Self-Care Journal Decorating, 2 to 4 p.m., International Center, north entrance
- Thursday, April 11: Flowerpot decorating, 9 a.m. to noon, Wells Hall People’s Park; Bonus event: Student Activism Symposium, 6 to 8 p.m., Wells Hall
- Friday, April 12: Pizza and Resources, noon to 1 p.m., Outside courtyard of Olds Hall
In addition to each event’s craft or giveaway, anyone who is interested can learn about opportunities to join the movement against campus sexual violence at MSU, including becoming a POE peer educator or Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention Team volunteer. Committee partner End Violent Encounters also is recruiting volunteers and interns.
The MSU It’s On Us Week of Action events represent a united effort to foster a culture of support, empowerment and awareness. All members of the MSU community are encouraged to participate and spread the word within their networks.
For more information and updates, please visit MSU It’s On Us Instagram.
About It’s On Us:
It’s On Us is a national movement that encourages everyone to play a role in ending sexual assault on college campuses. Through education, awareness and empowerment, It’s On Us strives to create safer environments for all students.