I am proud to be a student at UW-Whitewater and refer to this campus as my temporary home. I enjoy the relatively peaceful walks to classes, being in a place where professors actually know your name, and the numerous opportunities for personal growth.

Yet, recent years have especially shown that there are silent problems amidst what seems like an almost perfect campus. One of these silent problems is sexual assault.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which provides encouragement for people to reach out, stand up, and become more informed. There are many resources both on and off campus. University Health and Counseling Services and the UW-Whitewater Police offer a wide range of support, but there are also organizations like PADA (People Against Domestic and Sexual Abuse) and APFV (Association for the Prevention of Family Violence) which assist people depending on their need.

It can seem extremely intimidating and overwhelming to make a call, or send an e-mail. Yet, that one message could mean freedom, a healthier life, saving a friend from further pain, or preventing an attack altogether.

I would also like you to consider starting or being a part of a team for the upcoming Dance-a Thon. The event will be held April 23 in the University Center Hamilton Room from 4 to 10 p.m. There will be t-shirts, giveaways, food, and you and your friends can even win the Best Costume award. Registration forms can be picked up at the Ambrose Health Center.

Not only is this a night to dance and celebrate life, but the funds raised will be donated to PADA and APFV, to help others in need of support due to a crime of assault.

Every word spoken, every word heard, every act of kindness moves silence closer to solutions. Warhawks, it’s time to be part of that solution!

Megan Kugel

Communication BA