Day to End Rape Culture (DERC) is an expo-style event designed to educate our community about various elements of rape culture and ways to address them in their day-to-day lives. What is rape culture? Rape Culture is an environment in which sexual violence is prevalent and normalized/excused by the media, popular culture and daily interactions. Rape culture perpetuates power-based personal violence in our community by creating and reinforcing norms that tell us these acts of violence are acceptable. Leading up to DERC, various students, organizations, and support resources create interactive presentations on one aspect of rape culture and facilitate rich discussions with their peers. Those who attend DERC can expect to leave with a wealth of new information and skills to challenge and prevent violence in their communities. Even if you only have a few minutes and can see one presentation, you’ll walk away with a new way of looking at the topic and new ways to interact with it in your own life. DERC is typically held during the Spring Semester each year.
Due to COVID-19 our office is hosting a virtual Week to End Rape Culture (WERC) through our social media platforms from Monday, April 12 to Friday, April 16.
WERC is a social and digital media campaign that strives to create a more informed campus, equipped with the resources and skills to make our community a safer place. Follow Anti-Violence Initiatives on social media for updates, engagement opportunities, and giveaways throughout the week! You’ll see familiar faces from across campus, and can expect to find diverse content on topics including gender stereotypes, consent, sexual assault, domestic/dating violence, rape culture, healthy relationships, and more, posted every day of the week (April 12 – April 16). WERC, and previously DERC, is a time for all members of our TCNJ community to come together and promote a healthier, safer, and more respectful culture on our virtual and physical campus.
Thank you to all of our co-sponsors who helped make this virtual event possible! For more information about Sexual Assault Awareness Month and our virtual opportunities please visit: https://oavi.tcnj.edu/events/sexual-assault-awareness-month/
