Office for Social Justice and Diversity
Photo of University Hall
Office for Social Justice and Diversity
March 31, 2023

Sexual Assault Awareness…more!

Women’s History Month Window Display, Safe Space Training, Check Out Our Centers…more!

Posted in: Discussion Groups, Inclusion News, Upcoming Events

Sexual Assault & College Campuses

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Prevention Month, which involves awareness and prevention of sexual assault, harassment and abuse. Sexual assault is especially prevalent on college campuses. According to Know Your IX, 19% of women and 6% of men experience sexual assault during their college years, with 90% of these occurrences perpetrated by someone they know. The key to change is understanding SA, identifying the types and knowing what resources are readily available. Learn More.

Start by Believing

The Montclair State University Police Department and the Office for Social Justice and Diversity have partnered for a simple, yet powerful, program to empower us all to help those that need to have the courage to come forward to report sexual violence – always Start by Believing.

Start by Believing is a public awareness campaign designed to end the cycle of silence and change the way we respond to sexual assault. It was first launched in April 2011. Since then, thousands of people across the country and around the world have made their own personal commitments. It is simple in its premise knowing that false reports of assault are extremely rare and the first response to someone that discloses an assault creates a path to survival. But it’s more than just a personal pledge. By transforming personal and professional responses to sexual assault, we can help victims pursue justice and healing. Failed responses can lead to additional victims. Make the Pledge.

Women's History Month Inspirations.

Women’s History Month Window Display

During Women’s History Month, the Office for Social Justice and Diversity featured a wide variety of women trailblazers, as well as some of our very own women trailblazers here at Montclair State University. Fellow Red Hawks were also able to take part in the display, letting us know what women inspire them! View the Gallery!

Pride Flag.

Safe Space Training

Safe Space Training is a program that provides attendees with information and tools to combat homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, cissexism and heterosexism. As a participant, you will reflect on your own experiences to enhance your personal and professional development, provide further education and identify ways to create change on campus and beyond. The final Safe Space training of the spring 2023 semester will be held on Thursday, April 6, 4-7 p.m., Student Center, Ballrooms. Register Today!

Montclair State University's Campus.

Check Out Our Centers!

The Office for Social Justice and Diversity provides resources and spaces that accommodate our campus community. Such as the LGBTQ Center, Multicultural Center, Women’s Center and the Center for Faith and Spirituality. Each center offers a safe space for their communities and anyone who is looking for resources. Please also visit our main website, Social Justice and Diversity, for additional information. Come Visit!

People protesting.

Earth Day & Environmental Racism

Earth day is an annual holiday that celebrates our planet and its natural beauty while seeking to bring awareness to mounting environmental concerns. While it’s important to recognize the progress we’ve made in protecting the environment, we must also acknowledge that not all communities have equitable access to clean, safe and sustainable environments. Environmental racism, or the disproportionate presence of environmental hazards in Communities of Color, is a pressing concern that is not often enough integrated into sustainability efforts. As we celebrate Earth Day, we must also reaffirm our commitment to fighting environmental injustice, working towards a future where everyone has access to a safe and healthy environment. Read More.

Black Maternal Health Week.

Black Maternal Health Week 2023

Black Maternal Health Week starts Tuesday, April 11 and this year’s theme is “Our Bodies Belong to Us: Restoring Black Autonomy and Joy!” This week-long campaign was founded and led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance​ to build awareness, activism and community-building​ to amplify ​the voices, perspectives and lived experiences of Black Mamas and birthing people. Learn More.

External Resources

  • Gathering of Nations: Taking place from Thursday, April 27- Saturday, April 29, the Gathering of Nations Powwow and Miss Indian World Pageant is one of the world’s most recognized annual festivals.
  • World Autism Awareness Day: This day recognizes and spreads awareness for the rights of people with autism.
  • GLSEN Day of Silence: The GLSEN Day of Silence is a national student-led demonstration where LGBTQ students and allies across the country and the world take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in schools.

Selected Events