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UK Students Gather In Support Of Sexual Assault Survivors

Posted at 5:30 PM, Oct 05, 2018
and last updated 2019-05-20 15:31:16-04

LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18)– University of Kentucky students gathered Friday afternoon to support sexual assault survivors at a campus vigil.

The vigil started around 4 p.m. on the lawn behind the Gatton Student Center, where survivors shared their stories. There were tears as some talked publicly about their assault for the first time.

A UK senior and sexual assault survivor said that what she went through caused her to withdraw from her friends and other aspects of her life. She said she participated in organizing the event on Friday because she doesn’t want others to feel alone.

The vigil was a time to show support for sexual assault survivors and to provide a safe space for those in pain and those who may have been triggered by the current news cycle.

One sophomore became emotional as she shared her experience for the first time, “I ask everybody to listen to one another, say, ‘hey, I believe you’. You don’t have to agree with the situation, but, ‘hey, I understand that happened to you, how can I help you?”

The Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center of the Bluegrass released a statement letting survivors know that they are available to provide support and resources 24/7. You can call them at (859) 253-2511.

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is available 24/7 at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).