Homecoming week is within reach. We know everyone is excited about all of the festivities that go on during this time and liven up campus a little more than usual. While most of us will be out having fun, unfortunately some people may end up in a situation that could change their life forever. Sexual assault is an unfortunate thing that happens, but the likelihood of it happening can be decreased by staying aware and speaking up if you see something suspicious happening.
The WSU Student Senate and RE-Initiative have teamed up to create a Task Force to bring awareness about sexual assault and bystander intervention to the Winona State University campus. The Task Force presented a motion to bring more awareness during homecoming week on this topic. Their goal is to create a campus climate where people feel safe and respected. The Student Senate and RE-Initiative have decided to hand out cups to all of the students. The cups will be white, but when they are filled up and get cold they turn purple. They will having the saying ‘See. Think. React.’ on the front. This is meant to be a message to the students to speak up if they see anything questionable. Bystander intervention could save someone from a life-altering event. Chair of inclusion and diversity committee liberal arts representative, Danielle Weiler, stated, “We want safety to literally be in the hands of our students with the message.” With that being said, the Task Force will be handing these cups out on campus all next week outside of Kryzsko to remind everyone to stay extra cautious during the Homecoming celebrations. They encourage everyone to grab one and use them throughout Homecoming as a friendly reminder. Have fun, be safe, and make positive memories, Warriors!
Here are some important numbers in case of an emergency:
SEMCAC Family Clinic 507.452.4307
WSU Counseling Center 507.457.5330
WSU Security 507.457.5555
WSU Student Health Services 507.457.5160
Winona County Sheriff (non-emergency) 507.457.6386
Winona Police Department (non-emergency) 507.454.6302
Women’s Resource Center, 24-Hour Crisis Line 507.452.4453
Women’s Resource Center (non-emergency) 507.452.4440