Vanguard

Issue date: 10/22/07 Section: Lifestyles

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. member Latoria Cheeks and I.M.P.A.C.T. mentee Jalees Foster practice their new relaxation skills during the Week Without Violence, which both organizations co-sponsored.

Week Without Violence is a national campaign whose mission is to eliminate racism, hate and violence while empowering women. Last week, the YWCA of Greater Mobile, the oldest and largest multi-cultural women's organization in the world, I.M.P.A.C.T, a mentoring group for freshman, the Epsilon Upsilon chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Iota Nu chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority sponsored the events held at the University of South Alabama.

The festivities began last Monday with a day of acknowledgment. Students were given information about campus safety and domestic violence statistics. To minimize violence, alternatives to violent behavior were given. One suggested alternative was the use of the campus recreation center. While there, students are given the option to take classes or work out to help relieve stress. Another option was making an appointment with the counseling and testing center, where certified counselors are readily available to talk about any problems or concerns students may have.

Purple, as well as white, ribbons were given out during the campaign. The purple ribbon symbolized domestic violence awareness, and the white ribbon was for men who wanted take a stand against violence towards women. Another activity that was in place on Monday was the clothes line project. Members of the campaign got students to draw their feelings or their visions of peace. The drawings were then hung on a clothes line and were briefly displayed at The Student Center art gallery but will find a permanent home at the YWCA on Summerville Drive.

Kierra Howell, a USA freshman and business major stated had a lot to say when asked how she felt about the University's participation in Week Without Violence.

"It is great to know that there are people out there who take into consideration the well-being of not only female students, but of all females across the world. It makes me feel safe knowing that there are people to talk to," Howell said.

A day to contemplate, meditate, and energize was the theme of last Tuesday. To show students that there are alternatives to violent behavior, a relaxation seminar was conducted. The seminar focused on improving relaxation techniques, as well as providing methods for coping. The seminar was held in The Student Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants also made signs containing things they felt represented of peace and love and posted them around the room. Lit candles and soothing music helped enhance the mood.

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