Observing Sexual Assault Awareness Month
The following was sent to all members of the Boston University Community on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 from Dr. Judy Platt, MD, Chief Health Officer and Executive Director of Student Health Services.
Dear Members of our Boston University Community,
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a national campaign to raise awareness about sexual violence, prevent harm, and support survivors. Many survivors navigate their trauma alone due to stigma, shame, and harmful myths about sexual violence. SAAM amplifies survivor voices, gives opportunities for allyship, and encourages community education to help prevent future harm.
This month Boston University will host several opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to contribute to a community of safety and support:
Sexual Assault Prevention & Advocacy Fair
April 9, 11 AM – 1 PM, GSU Link
This event will connect BU community members with local resources for prevention, support, and advocacy. Campus and community organizations will share information and answer questions to foster a safe and informed community.
Gender Harassment in Science & Academia Summit
April 14, 6 PM – 8:30 PM, GSU Metcalf Ballroom
This event will explore ways of addressing the culture that contributes to gender harassment on college campuses. The Summit will feature a keynote address by Dr. Jennifer Gómez (School of Social Work) and a panel of students, staff, and survivors. Register for the event.
Media Fair and Book Raffle
April 24, 4 PM – 6 PM, Saxbys, Center for Computing & Data Sciences
This event will turn the page on romanticized toxicity in media. BU community members will learn how to engage with “guilty pleasure” books and movies without taking on their harmful messages and get recommendations for media that challenge these messages.
BU Denim Day
Denim Day is an international movement to end victim-blaming and myths about sexual violence. BU community members are encouraged to wear denim on April 30. To raise awareness, spark discussion, and show support on Denim Day, you can get an “Ask me about my denim!” pin at SARP events or request a pin by mail. SARP tables will be in the Medical Campus Instructional Building on April 9 from 12 PM – 1 PM and in Claflin Hall, Warren Towers, and Towers Lawn on April 10 from 4 PM – 6 PM.
Participating in SAAM can be challenging for survivors. If you or someone you care about has been impacted by sexual violence, you are not alone. The Chief Health Office and our campus partners offer support services for the BU community.
For Students: The Sexual Assault Response & Prevention Center (SARP) provides free and confidential counseling, accompaniment, and 24/7 advocacy support to all BU students. To access these services, call 617-353-7277.
For Faculty & Staff: The Faculty & Staff Assistance Office (FSAO) offers free and confidential mental health support for personal, work-related, and family concerns. This includes assessments, short-term counseling, referrals to mental healthcare, and identity-based resources to promote wellbeing. To access mental health services, call 617-353-5381.
Thank you for your engagement and commitment to fostering a community of safety and support.
Judy T. Platt, MD (she/her)
Chief Health Officer
Executive Director, Student Health Services
Boston University