As a women’s college that is gender diverse and focused on becoming an anti-racist community, Mount Holyoke College recognizes the unique and particular ways that women are often subjected to gender-based violence.

The ongoing targeting of women across all racial groups has not abated. We also recognize the unique and particular ways that sexual assault impacts the lives of individuals who are Black, Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC). 

Our ongoing Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) events have been pivotal to raising awareness of strategies for healing from sexual assault, combatting rape culture and supporting survivors.

For this program, we are particularly interested in lifting up the voices of Black and Indigenous women organizers. In this brown bag lunch session, we will explore the culturally significant variables that influence reporting incidents of violence for women of color and more importantly amplify the work of activists.

We are deeply honored to welcome Scheherazade Tillet, the Co-Founder and Executive Director of an incredible organization known as “A Long Walk Home”. Their organizational mission is to empower “young artists and activists to end violence against all girls and women.” Their advocacy work in fighting for racial and gender equity in schools and communities throughout the United States spans several movements and is inclusive of a vast array of voices. We encourage all to support this incredible non-profit engaged in direct action with survivors and those that wish to support them.

Please join us for this important dialogue.