Minnesota State Mankato Holding Campus, Community Events to Recognize Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Month
Mankato, Minn. – Minnesota State University, Mankato’s Violence Awareness and Response Program is hosting a series of October events during Domestic Violence Prevention and Awareness Month to raise awareness, foster education and support survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
This year’s theme emphasizes community connection, healing through art and tangible support for survivors. Events are open to the general public in addition to MSU students, faculty and staff.
Featured Events
Oct. 20-Nov. 7: “What Were You Wearing?” Art Installation, Centennial Student Union Art Gallery Display (lower level of CSU)
The display features curated clothing, survivor stories, artwork and poetry that provides the opportunity to reflect on the impact of sexual violence.
- Opening reception: Monday, Oct. 20, 4:30-6 p.m.
- Featuring remarks by representatives from the Violence Awareness and Response Program and CADA (Committee Against Domestic Abuse), with invitations extended to campus and community organizations.
Throughout October: Light It Up Purple Campaign
Community members are encouraged to display purple lights to raise awareness of domestic violence and show solidarity with survivors.
- Purple glowsticks will be distributed by the MSU Women’s Center and Athletics at select Maverick home games.
- Oct. 23 is Purple Thursday, when the student group Peer Educators Acting for Change and Equality (PEACE) will host The Purple Booth on the CSU mall (weather permitting), offering engagement activities and opportunities to support local survivor services through donations to CADA or the Violence Awareness Response Program.
Supporting Every Survivor: Crowdfunding Campaign
The Violence Awareness Response Program has launched a crowdfunding initiative to provide emergency support for MSU students who have experienced sexual violence. Fund raised will directly assist survivors in accessing safety planning resources such as transportation, housing, medication, academic supplies and technology—critical needs that support healing, safety and retention.
- Ongoing throughout October: https://link.mnsu.edu/varpcrowdfund
For more information on Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month events at Minnesota State Mankato, please contact the Violence Awareness and Response Program at varp@mnsu.edu.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is recognized nationally during the month of October.
About VARP:
The Violence Awareness and Response Program at Minnesota State Mankato provides confidential advocacy and education for students affected by sexual violence, relationship abuse and stalking. VARP is committed to prevention, survivor support and creating a campus culture of respect and accountability.
Minnesota State Mankato, a comprehensive university with 15,251 students, is part of the Minnesota State system, which includes 26 colleges and seven universities.
