A report by the Association of American Universities was released Sept. 21 that contained data from 27 top universities. After drawing information from over 150,000 students, the survey found that over 20 percent of undergraduate females had been sexually assaulted this year. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, another staggering study found that there is an average of 240,000 victims of rape and sexual assault each year, many of which are unreported.
Sexual assault on college campuses around the country is a serious issue that many advocates are attempting to bring into mainstream attention. The City of Atlanta and Mayor Kasim Reed have pledged to raise awareness of the problem and help put an end to it by initiating the Take a Stand campaign. Colleges all over the city will be provided with resources for both men and women on how to stay safe and get help in the event of an emergency.
Celebrities such as Gabrielle Union and Tika Sumpter are assisting with getting the word out about sexual assault prevention by starring in the campaign’s public service announcement and short film.
The Uber transportation company has reached out to help Take a Stand by offering $20 off for first-time users with the code “CityofAtlanta” to ensure that those in danger of abuse can leave an undesirable situation.
“Uber seeks to promote a smart transportation alternative and offers a safe option to get around the City of Atlanta,” said Keith Radford, the general manager of Uber Atlanta.
The White House “Apps Against Abuse” winner, Circle of 6, is also a Take a Stand partner. The purpose of the free smartphone app is to prevent violence by keeping users connected to one another.
For more information on Take a Stand, visit www.atlantaga.gov/takeastand.
Watch the City of Atlanta’s short film on sexual assault on the next page
