Students Organized Against Rape (SOAR)
**NEWS**
Are you interested in learning more about the myths and misperceptions that surround sexual assault and domestic violence in our society? Do you want to get course credit for doing so? Enroll in HEAL 498:Survey of Sexual Violence, offered during the fall term. For more information, contact Emily Page at emilyp@rice.edu.
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SOAR is a joint Rice Wellness Center and Houston Area Women’s Center effort. While our programming and activities are varied, we have one main goal: to educate the Rice campus and local community about the epidemic of sexual assault, and in doing so, prevent some attacks from occurring.
SOAR’s Main Activities:
- Organize on-campus events (forums, presentations, speakers) related to the issues of sexual assault and dating violence.
- Educate middle- and high-school students about sexual assault and dating violence.
- Sponsor the annual SOAR T-shirt campaign
Why you should get involved with SOAR:
- On a campus the size of Rice, there are an estimated 67 sexual assaults PER ACADEMIC YEAR.
- 1 in 4 women will be sexually assaulted during her lifetime.
- As a S.O.A.R member, you will have the opportunity to reduce these figures through education and advocacy.
- We will provide you with information, speaking/listening skills, and experience that will make you a valuable resource for others in your personal and professional lives.
Can men join?:
- Absolutely! They can, and should. Sexual assault is a problem that affects both men and women -- and both men and women need to be part of the solution.
- S.O.A.R. was founded by a group of men who wanted to eliminate sexual assault at Rice.
When and where are the meetings? What are they like?:
- We meet twice a month on alternate Mondays from noon to 1pm in the Health and Wellness multipurpose room (old Brown commons).
- Most meetings are devoted to the planning of future events and discussion of sexual assault issues on the Rice campus. They are quite informal, yet still productive, so feel free to stop by.
- If you would like to join the listserv, please email Rob Lentz or signup online at http://mailman.rice.edu/mailman/listinfo/soar-l
Things Women Should Know When Traveling Alone
(taken from TravelHost magazine article by Dale J. Mack)
- Use common sense and make smart choices: Not losing it and making a bad decision is key to resolving any situation that may arise.
- Be aware of your body language: Always appear familiar with your surroundings, some people prey on those women who seem most disoriented. If you need help go into a well lit business and ask.
- Trust your instincts -- they're usually dependable
- Don't appear to be traveling alone: Saying that your friends are right behind you or on there way helps you not be seen as alone and vulnerable
- When you check in at a hotel make sure the person at the desk doesn't say your room number out loud.
- Discretion is the key -- flaunting money or jewelry is unwise: Instead of a purse use a money belt or try leaving your valuables at the front desk or in a safe place in your room
- Try to stay in the company of other woman
- Be careful when accepting food or drinks from others and try not to leave your own food or drink unattended
- If you feel as though you're being followed, quickly slip into a well lit business and ask for a cab or call the police if you feel a serious threat.
