Sexual Assault Centre Awareness Initiative

            I thought it was interesting how Rapp brought forward the idea of Internet as a means of activism. It can be appreciated in the article that using the Internet as a means to gather support was a new phenomenon. Today, the Internet today is a medium used to promote any cause. It made me reflect on my CSL project.

            Along with providing clients with counseling support, I am also the co-chair of the awareness committee. The awareness committee’s role is to spread the word about the issue of sexual assault, and also to spread awareness of what the centre provides and how people can access these resources. The main way we spread awareness is through posters, whiteboard messages, merchandising efforts (such as buttons) and mini-events such as our cookie booths for Awareness Week. One area that we are lacking is using the internet and social media. We have taken more of a focus on how to engage the students through cyber-means this year.

            One of the great things about social media is that it is a free way to engage a large amount of people. It can also be a source for people who want to inquire about services or information about the centre without having to leave their own home. The centre has a facebook page, and one of our volunteers is in charge of posting and updating the page. However, social media can have its drawbacks. For Facebook, for example, although it is an awesome way to reach out to many it is also easily ignored. In addition, in order to gain traction on the internet, it seems that as the more and more blogs are created, the more ‘shocking’ or ‘out there’ initiatives have to be. Also, publicity often depends on who the backers of the blogs or websites are. This reminds of one of the first articles we read this year, with the rise of neo-liberalism and funding. In order to get funding or support for a blog or website, certain values/standards may need to be adjusted to fit what the funding company values.

            Overall, I think using social media to raise support and spread issues is beneficial. Awareness is key, and the cheapest way to reach the maximum amount of people seems to be via the internet.