Like many of you, we at Lumina Alliance are saddened to hear about the multiple sexual assaults that have been shared by dozens of survivors on local media. While we don’t comment on specific incidents, we do want to make it clear that we as an organization believe all survivors and stand with them ALWAYS.
This is coming to light at a time when we, along with others throughout the nation, are recognizing Sexual Assault Action Month (SAAM). During the month of April, we look to engage in conversation with our community, to educate and dispel myths, to foster a culture that supports survivors and creates a safe, thriving, and equitable community. Lumina Alliance is honoring the month with a theme of Collective Power: Together We Can Create A Community Free From Sexual Violence.
“Everyone has a role to play in preventing sexual violence,” said Lumina Alliance CEO Jennifer Adams. “Change begins at an individual level. Starting conversations, modeling healthy boundaries and relationships, and believing survivors are all things we can do to create a community that stands against violence.”
Throughout April, there are many opportunities for community members across the county to learn more about sexual violence, actions they can take to prevent it, and how to foster healthy relationships in their lives. Lumina Alliance and our sister agency, Cal Poly Safer, have planned a series of events for the month of April. Some highlights include:
- An evening with Tarana Burke: CalPoly Safer has invited activist, author and the founder of the “MeToo” movement, for a discussion on activism, healing, and thriving on April 11 in the Multi-Activity Center on Cal Poly’s campus.
- SAAM Community Gathering: Lumina Alliance is hosting a community gathering for SLO County and invites everyone impacted by recent events to share, discuss and process, together on April 14 from 5:30-7:00 p.m., at the San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St, San Luis Obispo.
- A Flashlight Series movie screening and panel discussion of “I Am Evidence” at the Palm Theatre on April 22. This event is free to attend but pre-registration is required.
- April 15-30, visit the former Abercrombie and Fitch store on Higuera St. to see our window display honoring survivors in our community. Created in partnership with Cal Poly Panhellenic.
- Take Back The Night, hosted by Cal Poly Safer, is a candlelight vigil for survivors on Cal Poly’s campus on April 28. This is open to the community at large.