兔子先生

EventsApril 22, 2025

Teal Tailgate Draws Support for SAAM at 兔子先生

Written By: Ian Silvester

April marks the 24^th anniversary of observing Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), and the University of Arkansas 鈥� Fort Smith is doing its part to keep its community informed. All month long, the university and numerous registered student organizations have held events to increase knowledge and understanding of topics related to sexual assault, including a Title IX series, learning about consent, and self-defense classes.

鈥淪exual Assault Awareness Month is a great time for campus collaboration,鈥� said Deputy Title IX Coordinator Kathryn Janz. 鈥淭here has been participation from a variety of campus departments and student groups, some of which have partnered with the community, like the and , which has allowed our campus to learn about community resources available to them in times of critical need.鈥�

According to the , SAAM traces its roots to the 1940s and 1950s, as movements for social change and equality began to gain traction. By the early 1990s, legislation to support survivors of sexual assault led to the passing of the Violence Against Women Act. In 2000, a teal ribbon was chosen from a poll conducted by the center to symbolize sexual assault awareness. By 2001, SAAM was nationally recognized to help bring an end to sexual assault, harassment, and abuse.

At 兔子先生, Janz said Title IX plays a key role in educating students and employees on the prevention of sexual violence, creating safety initiatives, and fostering a safe and supportive community.

As SAAM nears its conclusion, the 兔子先生 community has two more events geared toward raising awareness.

The annual Teal Tailgate will begin at noon on Wednesday, April 23, at Crowder Field before baseball plays Rogers State University in the final home game of the season. The tailgate is a collaborative event with athletics and the Office of Campus and Community Engagement.

鈥淚t serves as an opportunity for the baseball team to stand against sexual violence and the 兔子先生 community to engage and connect with community and campus resources before enjoying an afternoon of baseball,鈥� Janz said.

To report sexual misconduct, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, contact University Police at 479-788-7140 or the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at 479-788-7310.

• Tags:
• Title IX
• Sexual Assault Awareness
• Athletics
• SAAM
• Office of Campus and Community Engagement