Liberty University lights Freedom Tower for Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Odyssey Fields
·2 min read

LYNCHBURG, Va. (WFXR) — Shining its light, one tower is illuminating the Liberty University (LU) campus in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM).

On April 15, Liberty University ignited its Freedom Tower to symbolize the school’s commitment to keeping its community safe. With a light teal, the tower shines over campus.

“Teal was the color chosen for SAAM for its symbolism of trust, devotion, and healing,” said Ashley Reich, Liberty’s Senior Vice President for Equity and Compliance. “It is important to recognize that it is impossible to prevent something that no one is aware of. To create this awareness, survivors and advocates alike wear teal to honor those who have fallen victim to sexual assault and to bring awareness to those around them.”

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The Office of Equity and Compliance (OEC) initiated the tower lighting and other events and resources on preventing and reporting sexual assault. To continue to raise awareness about sexual assault, the OEC is holding a “What Were You Wearing?” exhibit to bring attention to victim blaming and its impact on society.

On April 24 and 25, students are invited to share stories anonymously to be portrayed at the exhibit. The office will have a tale in the Montview Student Union to talk with students about SAAM and share supportive measures for students.

LU says the purpose of OEC is to provide a “safe, supportive, and neutral” for students to share and report incidents.

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“If they hear of something that needs to be reported, they can encourage their friends that this is a safe space for them. We really want the students to be the champions of that,” said Reich.

Over the last two years, the university says they spent over $10 million on advancements to ensure the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff. This includes the launching of the “Champion Safe” app, training courses, and creating its awareness and prevention campaign.

With the overall growth and recent advancements made by Liberty and the OEC, Reich said she feels “very positive and hopeful for the future.”

For a full list of Liberty Univesity’s advancements click here.

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