***Mentions of sexual assault and violence.
February is a month usually thought of alongside red and pink glittery hearts, cupids and spending some time with loved ones. Although it’s associated with the romance and fun of Valentine’s Day, February is also Teen Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. On Feb. 16, from 10-5 p.m., Angels United will be hosting a Valentine’s Bake Sale to raise funds for the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN). The bake sale will be held outside of SMB at the Meredith Mall.
Miriya Carson, ‘27, is the organizer behind the bake sale. Carson stated that “the goal of the bake sale is to raise money for survivors and spread awareness regarding sexual assault and some supports which are available, including RAINN,” which Carson explained runs a national sexual assault hotline to help survivors. Carson also said that a lot of the treats and desserts will be Valentine’s themed. . In addition to this, Carson and other volunteers will be baking the goods sold at the event.
In a month dedicated to romance, young people are vulnerable to intimate partner violence. Youth.gov approximates that 10% of adolescents aged 12-19 have experienced physical violence at the hands of an intimate partner and that young women are particularly vulnerable. RAINN and other resources for survivors are working to help educate and provide resources for victims and those around them. The Valentine’s Bake Sale provides the Meredith community with a direct way to help affect change around them.Below are resources students can utilize and be aware of:
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224
National Dating Abuse Helpline: 1-866-331-9474
By Lola Mestas, Copy Editor
Graphic by Shae-Lynn Henderson, EIC