University of Central Oklahoma students will raise awareness of domestic violence

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which has been observed nationally since 1981.

“I hope Central's students understand that it is OK to argue and have disagreements within close relationships, but it is never OK to be verbally, emotionally or physically abusive,” said Wendy Joseph, UCO coordinator of the Violence Prevention Project.

“We want them to recognize when their friends are in unhealthy relationships so they can help them find the courage and resources to get out.”

Students will place stop signs and fliers around campus at 10 a.m. Thursday to encourage students to not be a bystander in bullying and violence.

A wall of anonymous stories from survivors of domestic violence, notes of encouragement and information on domestic and dating violence will be displayed at 10 a.m. Oct. 16 in the Nigh University Center food court.

Students will assemble Halloween goody bags for families in shelters and write cards to domestic violence survivors at 9 a.m. Oct. 18 in the food court. Students will wear purple ribbons on Oct. 24. Ribbons will be passed out at 9 a.m. in the food court.

Students will decorate shirts in honor of victims and survivors of violence at 10 a.m. Oct. 25 in the food court.

On Oct. 31, silhouettes of domestic violence victims and their stories will be placed around campus to promote awareness.

For more information, call 974-2224.