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Be Part of the Solution

Eldridge Cleaver once said, "There is no more neutraility in the world. You either have to be a part of the solution, or you're going to be part of the problem." When it comes to ending violence against women in our community, we believe that men can and must be part of the solution.

White Ribbon is an international movement of men working to end violence against women. Hundreds of college campuses in the United States support White Ribbon, and Richmond College has sponsored and supported White Ribbon since 2006.

Center for Sexual Assault Prevention and Response
Spiders for Spiders
White Ribbon National Campaign Site

Violence Against Women: The Statistics

Violence against women is far too common. Women 18–24 are the most common victims of abuse by an intimate partner. According to data from the National Coalition Agaist Domestic Violence, in the United States,

  • one in four women have been victims of severe physical violence by an intimate partner
  • one in seven women have been victims of stalking
  • one in five women have been raped

Twenty-three percent of college women experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation. More than half of college sexual assaults occur during the fall semester of a typical year. (Statistics from the Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network)

How You Can Be Part of the Solution

We believe that men can play a vital role in ending violence against women through their words and actions. Here are some simple ways to be part of the solution:

  • Think about the kind of man you want to be. Be true to yourself and be confident in your own skin.
  • Treat all others with respect, dignity, and worth. Sexism, homophobia, and transphobia hurt us all.
  • Never use force, threats or violence in your relationships with others.
  • Ask first. Whether it is holding hands, kissing, or more, it's important to communicate... every single time.
  • Challenge and speak out against hurtful language, jokes, and bullying.
  • Be an active and positive bystander. Learn how through Spiders for Spiders.
  • Learn about the impact of violence against women in our communities.
  • Accept your role as a man in helping to end violence against women.
  • Wear a White Ribbon bracelet or shirt.

White Ribbon Campaign and Men of Quality