Every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted and every 9 minutes the victim is a child (Rainn.org). Sexual assault can be defined as sexual acts or behavior without consent from the victim. Anyone can be a victim of sexual assault. However, women and children are at an increased risk. Victims of sexual assault face emotional, mental, and physical trauma. Some examples include panic attacks, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexually transmitted infections, eating disorders, pregnancy, and substance abuse (Rainn.org). 

Although there are laws in place to punish offenders and protocols in place to support victims there is still a lot that can be done. Education is key. From a young age, children should be taught about consent, peer pressure, safety tips, and the warning signs related to sexual assault. Children and teens should also be taught about the resources available to them in their state if they or someone they know has been sexually assaulted. 

There are a few protocols in place to protect students at Pittsburg State University. For example, there are emergency poles located around campus. At any time students can press the button and the university police will be notified. Students can also call university police for an escort home anytime they feel unsafe. However, these resources are not enough to stop sexual assaults because oftentimes they occur off-campus. Students can protect themselves off-campus by always going somewhere with a friend, being aware of their surroundings, and making sure their cars are locked as well as the windows and doors in their house.

Education on sexual assault is key. By starting education at an early age, children are able to acknowledge the warning signs of sexual assault, learn safety tips, and be informed about resources available to them. 

By signing this petition, we are able to raise awareness about sexual assault and be a part of the solution.