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The Sexual Violence Education and Prevention Program

Sexual assault is an issue of significant concern on American college campuses, including Valdosta State University. The Women's and Gender Studies program is dedicated to educating our students on this topic to reduce the likelihood of sexual violence occurring within our community.

   
Carswell Hall

Welcome to the Sexual Violence Education and Prevention Program

Our goal is to reduce sexual violence by raising awareness, providing prevention education, and creating a climate for social change. We:

  • Educate students, staff, and faculty about sexual violence, its under lying causes and impact on our community
  • Empower women to be active sexual agents
  • Empower men to challenge harmful aspects of traditional masculinity and to embrace their role as allies in violence prevention work
  • Work toward comprehensive, coordinated interventions for social and cultural change
  • Promote respectful and responsible sexual relationships
  • Work toward increasing dramatically the number of men who make these issues a priority in their personal and professional lives

How to End Violence Against Women & Children

by Syracuse Cultural Workers

Work for full equality between men and women in society and in personal relationships.
Examine the ways we legitimize male violence.
Understand that what it means to "be a man" is defined by society.
Start on the playground.
Unplug boys and girls from violent media.
Promote good sports etiquette.
Hire coaches committed to nonviolence.
Do not use "like a girl" or "like a woman" as a put-down.
Encourage athletic activities that involve cooperation, fun, physical health and camaraderie.
Teach children how to settle conflicts peacefully.
Recognize that verbal and emotional cruelty is also violence.
Understand that love does not involve control or ownership.
Remember: Anger is a feeling; violence is an action.
Do not express feelings with fists.
Teach boys and girls effective, respectful ways to express frustration, sadness, and anger.
We are all role models. Be nurturing, loving, and caring.
Do not belittle, humiliate, or hit children.
Advocate for anti-violence laws and enforcement.
Recognize that the availability of guns increases lethal violence.
Ask local and elected officials to take action.
Teach your daughters that respect is just a minimum.
Teach your sons the same.
Teach boys and girls to communicate clearly in relationships, and that "no" really does mean "no."
Question rape myths.
Recognize that alcohol and drugs feed violence.
Never excuse behavior by saying "boys will be boys."
Confront homophobia - it pushes men into being tough.
Do not use "gay" as a put-down.
Recognize that individual violence is supported by social systems based on power and control.
Understand war's effect on women and children and men.
Resist glorifying violence.
Create new stories, myths, and heroes.
Praise gentle boys.
Encourage children to trust their instincts.
Believe victims and children.

SUPPORT THE WORK OF SHELTERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY.