Acting out against violence
Mobs of first-year students and a handful of upperclassmenstreamed into McFarlin Auditorium on Monday night to attend thesexual assault prevention program, “You the Man,”sponsored by the Women’s Center.
The Women’s Center has put on annual programs regardingsexual assault for years. “You the Man” educatedstudents on how to handle and recognize abusive relationships andthe reality of rape crimes.
“We decided to put this program on because first-yearwomen in their first semester at college are particularlyvulnerable to being sexually assaulted. So we feel that it isessential for all students to have sexual assault preventionprogramming as early as possible within their first-year,”said Courtney Aberle, the coordinator of the Women’sCenter.
The first part of the program consisted of a one-man play, actedout by Eddie Martinez, who portrayed six different charactersregarding a young girl involved in an abusive relationship.
The various roles depicted actions that were not, but shouldhave been taken to avoid harm and consequences to the peopleinvolved.
During the program, Martinez also announced startling figures ondate rape crimes.
Ninety percent of sexual assaults were committed against womenwhile the percent of sexual violence committed by men are 99percent. These acts can occur in homes, schools, and even churches.He also said that 80 to 86 percent of rape victims know theiroffenders.
SMU Police Chief Mike Snellgrove addressed the audience on themeasures the SMU Police Department would take in the event of arape crime on campus.
Arguably the most touching and influential speaker to thestudents was Gina Cotroneo, a representative from the TexasAssociation Against Sexual Assault, who is a rape victim. Shevividly shared her experience with the audience.
She also talked about the importance of choice.
“You have a choice on how you react to things,” shesaid. “In regards to the rape, I made a choice of peace.There was no anger or revenge towards my rapist.”
Gina’s positive attitude had an effect on manystudents.
“I will remember Gina’s rape experience because itwas something that actually happened to her. Everything she saidwas truthful,” sophomore Brandon McMillian said.
There was an estimated 875 people in the audience and the nightproved to be a success.
“The program was very informative and taught people how toact in various situations. I felt that the things discussed weredefinitely applicable to my life,” Ada Esedebe, a first-yearsaid.
Anyone on campus that is a victim of sexual assault is urged tocontact the SMU Police Department at 214-768-3404 or the Counselingand Testing Center at 214-768-2211.
