Reclaiming the Red Zone

The “Red Zone” September 1 – October 10. It is the time period where students are statistically more likely to experience sexual assault and violence.

The start of every school year offers great promise, possibility, and potential for all returning students. However, it is during this time that students can also face immense challenges, like the stress of academic pressure, isolation in new cities, and unfortunately, violence. The start of the fall semester, from September 1st to October 10th, has recently been dubbed the “Red Zone” where students are statistically more likely to experience sexual assault and violence. Due to limited education about consent and sexual violence, increased partying between September 1 and October 10, and a multitude of other factors associated with young people entering an unfamiliar space, many students are faced with the terrible and jarring reality of the Red Zone – especially marginalized students. However, through proper education and awareness about this Red Zone, campus can be made into a safer place, free from sexual violence. Therefore, it is vital for students, and all campus members, to be made aware of the Red Zone, and reclaim this space.  

Reclaiming the Red Zone means being an active bystander and fighting for change here in our own community. Upcoming opportunities include the Take Back the Night Rally on September 21 from 6 PM – 9 PM on Gaukel St. Kitchener. WUSA stands in support of this significant event and invites you to attend with us as a group. Meet us in front of the Davis Centre at 5:30 PM on September 21, 2023,  and we will board the bus together. The event itself will run from 6:00-9:00 PM featuring a 1.3 km march through downtown Kitchener. To secure your spot on the bus, please make a reservation. The bus will depart at 5:45 PM and return to campus after the event, ensuring a safe and convenient way to participate in this impactful occasion. Join us on September 19^th between 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM in the multi-purpose room of the SLC to make posters, pins and other crafts as we prepare for the march. Let your voice be heard! 

For those that could not join us in person at the event, here is a video from the rally, and more information about the Red Zone.