Picture from Florida State University Facebook
The kNOw MORE awareness campaign has been sweeping the Florida State University campus spreading awareness of sexual violence and methods of prevention and resources for sexual assault victims.
According to Florida State 24/7, Interim President Garnett S. Stokes announced several initiatives that not only follow, but build on current policies and practices aligned with national recommendations. The additions include training for not only students, but faculty and staff, a website available at any time to answer questions or concerns anyone may have, and a new Title IX director.
One addition to the campaign includes training for all freshman and transfer students who are required to complete the “Think About It,” an interactive, online program that discusses sexual violence prevention, bystander and healthy relationships. Students are also encouraged to attend one hour long ‘Campus Conversation’ programs.
Many students came out to Oglesby Union September 3rd for the kickoff of this campaign where they were greeted with friendly faces and free shirts highlighting their marketing campaign, “Ask. Respect. Don’t expect.” These words can be seen throughout campus as more and more students are becoming aware and joining in the efforts to spread the word. For student Alyssa Adkison, it was a refreshing sight to see so many people coming together for such an important cause.
“I think the ‘kNOw MORE’ campaign is a great effort to educate students about sexual violence. Many believe they will never encounter any situations which is just untrue. Education is the first step towards prevention and it needs to start with the students.”
In addition, Resident Assistants from every end of campus joined in the cause by sporting their T-shirts with the recently infamous catch phrase on back in hopes to reach out to as many as possible. Smith Hall Resident Assistant, Brendan East, was eager to show his support Wednesday with the others.
“I wore the shirt proudly and loved walking around campus seeing other people wearing the same shirt to promote awareness. I was asked about it and was able to talk about how we’re trying to end sexual violence and misconduct campus wide. I’m thankful so many people got to wear it!”
In the release of their new campaign, a new website was also created to cater to the needs of students looking for answers concerning various situations. Within the website you can find links to report an incident or sexual misconduct and hazing, as well as tips to prevent sexual violence, the University Counseling Center, Women’s Clinic, FSU Police Department, and Tallahassee Police Department.
We encourage you to find out more and get involved by following the link below to the kNOw MORE campaign website: https://smr.fsu.edu/