Content warning: The following message contains references to sexual violence.
From a young age, we’re taught that our time in college is supposed to be the best time of our lives. It’s meant to be a time of education, exploration, growth and passion. Our time in college should never be threatened by the chance that we could be exploited, abused, assaulted or raped.
Yet, this is what happens to many members of our community on MU’s campus, as demonstrated by the Oct. 5 “Show Me: Mizzou Without Rape” protest.
Her Campus Mizzou stands in solidarity with the “Show Me: Mizzou Without Rape” protestors. We also acknowledge that as women with a platform, we have a responsibility to support those who are hurting at this time.
Many members of our staff attended the protest. Writer Emma Lingo is currently reporting on the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center’s clothing drive for University Hospital’s SANE Clinic. We encourage you to donate as much requested clothing as you can. Donations can be dropped off at the RSVP Center, the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center, the LGBTQ Resource Center, the Women’s Center and 130 Jesse Hall.
At Her Campus Mizzou’s staff meeting this month, we will be dedicating some time to discuss sexual violence safety and resources with our writers.
If you have a grievance you’d like to share regarding sexual assault at MU, we encourage you to report it on this Google form started by MU student Kate Taylor: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfKdiI046lHcyyH7S9L47d3gSl1EhNjfEb0Fp9Hq0sLF8a3xw/viewform.
Her Campus Mizzou believes victims and survivors.
If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual violence, there are confidential resources available to help you. The RSVP Center can be reached at (573)-882-6638. The 24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 1-800-656-4673. True North of Columbia, an organization which provides “safety, shelter, education and transitional support for those who have been affected by domestic and sexual violence,” has a toll-free crisis line at 1-800-548-2480, as well as a crisis line for the deaf at 1-800-380-3323.