Independence, KS – April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and today, April 6, 2021, the Independence Community College and Coffeyville Community College Softball Teams are wearing teal in their double-header matchup today in Independence, Kansas at 2pm and 4pm. The jerseys feature the hashtag “#IAsk” on them, emphasizing the importance of asking for consent as a ‘healthy, normal, and necessary part of everyday interactions’.
Indy Head Softball Coach, Sam Allen wanted to do something to raise awareness of the issue. “Right now, our focus is on raising awareness for our student body, staff, faculty, and administration.” Coach Allen said. “This is a very important issue for the students and community we serve, both male and female. We want to continue to put a focus on creating a culture of awareness, education, advocacy, and support.”
“Coach Allen’s effort to bring attention to this important and relevant cause is consistent with her ongoing support for our students, on and off the field.” Said Athletic Director, Eric Figurski. “Her impact on campus and community culture goes beyond athletics and I’m proud to work with her in this space.”
The student athletes and coaching staffs are also wearing a wrist band with the slogan “No More” on it, referencing The NO MORE Foundation.
“Over the last year, we have continued to take steps toward addressing this global issue on campus at ICC.” Said Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Vincent Bowhay, “We have updated our student code of conduct, increased our training of students, staff, and faculty, and developed a strong partnerships with local healthcare providers and telehealth providers. I appreciate Coach Allen’s leadership throughout this time.”
“I appreciate Coach Allen’s leadership to keep this at the forefront of discussion during a year that has included so many other difficult circumstances for our students, staff, and community, said ICC Interim President Cordell Jordan. “We will continue to remain diligent in our effort to combat sexual assault, across all areas of campus, and awareness is an important part of that process.”
Further resources on sexual assault are available online at www.rainn.org or by calling 1-800-656-HOPE.
Independence Community College (ICC) is a two-year educational institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. First established in 1925 as grades 13 and 14 of the Independence public school system, Independence Community College legally separated from the school district as its own entity which began offering college courses in the fall of 1970. Currently, ICC’s educational and support programming includes 35 programs of study for Associate of Arts and/or Science degrees, 11 programs of study for Certificate completion, Student Support Services, Upward Bound, men's and women's athletic programs and a variety of campus organizations and activities.
The NO MORE Foundation is dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault by increasing awareness, inspiring action, and fueling culture change. With more than 1,400 allied organizations and over 40 state, local, and international chapters, NO MORE sparks grassroots activism, encouraging everyone—women and men, youth and adults, from all walks of life—to be part of the solution. The Foundation creates and provides public awareness campaigns, educational resources and community organizing tools free-of-charge for anyone wanting to stop and prevent violence. The NO MORE Directory and other additional resources can be found at https://nomoredirectory.org/usa/