12 events supporting a culture of consent on campus in September

The first six weeks of the academic year are a busy time for schoolwork, joining clubs and making new friends. It’s also a crucial time to combat violence on campus — more than 50% of sexual assaults among college students happen in the fall semester, before Thanksgiving break.

This September, Prevention at Pitt will lead programming for the University’s first annual Campus Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time for the Pitt community to come together to support survivors, increase knowledge and identify strategies to eliminate sexual violence from our campus.

[Show support by wearing a T-shirt on Wednesdays during September.]

Find resources, discuss agency and healthy relationships and show your support for survivors at events throughout the month. All events take place in the Prevention at Pitt office on the 31st floor of the Cathedral of Learning, except as noted.

Conversation with a side of FRIES

Wednesday, Sept. 4, 6 p.m.

Enjoy a fry bar with all the fixings as you learn how consent is like FRIES — freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic and specific. Registration is recommended but not required to join this discussion on boundaries and healthy relationships.

Find Pitt and community resources

Monday, Sept. 9, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Meet support services and clubs from around Pittsburgh and the University at the Campus Sexual Assault Awareness Month resource fair. Pick up self-care materials as you explore the support and education available to Pitt community members who have been impacted by sexual misconduct.

Where: William Pitt Union Plaza (Rain location: WPU Lower Lounge)

How trauma impacts the brain

Friday, Sept. 13, 1-2 p.m.

This is the first in a series of Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) wellness workshops that will explore the effects of trauma, language for discussing complex emotions, soothing skills and coping strategies. In an entry level exploration of the neurobiology of trauma, attendees will learn about each part of the brain and its function through interactive exercises. No registration is required.

Self-defense training

Friday, Sept. 13, 4-6:30 p.m.

Self-defense takes many forms, from learning to pick up clues in your environment to setting healthy boundaries and practicing effective physical resistance skills. Practice common sense and practical ways to keep yourself and others safe in this high-energy, trauma-informed and gender-inclusive SETPoint session. You'll leave feeling strong, energized and empowered. Registration is encouraged as space is limited.

March for local survivors

Sunday, Sept. 15, 11 a.m.

Show your support for survivors of sexual violence at the fourth annual Pittsburgh Universities Believe Survivors March, sponsored by Pitt, Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, Carlow University, Chatham University and Point Park University. After a survivor speak out at Carnegie Mellon’s Tepper Quad, the group will march together through Oakland. The event will end with a self-care fair at the William Pitt Union patio, where speakers will talk about the power of healing. 

Practice trauma-informed engagement

Wednesday, Sept. 18, 11 a.m.

In this virtual training, participants will learn and practice skills to help them engage with the Pitt community in a way that recognizes and acknowledges the impact trauma can have on a person’s well-being. Register to receive the Zoom link.

Meet PAAR over pizza

Thursday, Sept. 19, 6-8 p.m.

Join Prevention at Pitt for a relaxing pizza and game night with Pittsburgh Action Against Rape. Learn more about the services PAAR provides and connect with a confidential advocate. Registration is open but not required to stop by.

An interactive intro to sexuality

Friday, Sept. 20, 4-6 p.m.

This workshop will guide you through an journey of the Circles of Sexuality: sensuality, intimacy, sexual identity, sexual and reproductive health, and sexualization. Registration is available but not required, so come discover more about yourself while connecting with others. 

Crafts and snacks

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 6-8 p.m.

Make jewelry, cards, buttons and more at this consent-themed craft night. There will also be sweets and popcorn. You can register now or come as you are.

Yoga for survivors

Thursday, Sept. 26, 4 p.m.

Trauma-informed yoga instructor Becky Bruce will lead a hands-free, gentle yoga class for survivors of sexual violence and supporters. Everybody — from experienced yogis to beginners — is welcome. Mats will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. Registration is open, but not required to attend.

Where: William Pitt Union, fifth floor dance studio

Explore your emotions

Friday, Sept. 27, 1 p.m.

Have you ever felt sad but realized you were actually angry? Or couldn’t put your finger on the feeling at all? This second PAAR workshop will focus on identifying and managing different emotions, exploring how they show up in our bodies and minds. No registration is required.

Share your story at open mic night

Friday, Oct. 4, 5:30 p.m.

Hear written works from people around Pitt about relationships that have impacted them in ways that are good, bad and in-between. First-time performers to seasoned veterans are welcome to take the stage to express their journey through art for up to 6 minutes. Performance slots are limited, so registration is recommended.

Where: C4C Understory CL Basement

Photography courtesy of Prevention at Pitt