In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the University of Illinois Springfield’s Social Work Club and Counseling Center co-hosted a powerful event titled “Break the Silence: Empower & Educate” on April 17. The event brought together students, advocates, and community organizations to raise awareness about sexual assault and domestic violence.
Partnering with Sojourn Shelter & Services and the Prairie Center Against Sexual Assault, the event aimed to educate students on the prevalence of sexual violence and the resources available for survivors. Kimberly Cuevas Martinez, President of the UIS Social Work Club, emphasized the event’s purpose.
“We hoped to raise awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault, while also informing students about the support and services offered by Sojourn Shelter and Services, the Counseling Center, and the Title IX office,” Martinez said.
According to a report from the National Library of Medicine, approximately one in three women and nearly one in six men experience some form of sexual violence during their lifetimes.
Martinez said the event gave students an opportunity to learn about these issues in a safe, supportive environment. Attendees were encouraged to ask questions about the services offered by Sojourn, the UIS Counseling Center, and the Title IX office.
Founded in 1974, Sojourn Shelter & Services provides 24-hour support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. The organization was born from grassroots efforts following a community conference at the former Sangamon State University. Sojourn offers an emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and a hotline for those in crisis—regardless of county residency.
The Prairie Center Against Sexual Assault, founded in 1975, also emerged from grassroots activism. With its main office in Springfield, the Center serves 11 counties across Central Illinois, offering crisis intervention, advocacy, counseling, and educational outreach.
Students seeking assistance or more information about domestic violence and sexual assault can reach out to Sojourn Shelter & Services, the Prairie Center Against Sexual Assault, the UIS Counseling Center, or the UIS Title IX Office.
