UA Greek Life Hosts It's On Us Week

By Elizabeth Muscari

This week, University of Arkansas Greek Life is hosting the annual It's On Us Week in conjunction with the national It's On Us program. Founded in 2014, the campaign consists of more than 250 participating institutions to prevent sexual assault on campuses. 

The University of Arkansas, one of the largest participants, will host a series of programs, activities, and trainings for UA Greek Life members throughout the week:  

Monday, Sept. 28, "It's On Us Week Kickoff"  

The events kicked off on Monday when students wore teal in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness, made posts in support of the cause on social media, and participated in a virtual kickoff event.

"It's On Us Week is important because we have a direct responsibility to prevent sexual assault," said Merrell Nelson, Panhellenic president. "This week educates us on how to be active preventors and reminds us to continue advocating for awareness."  

Tuesday, Sept. 29, "Because I Love You" 

Created by the One Love Foundation, "Because I Love You" is a virtual program that educates members on the dangers of harmful language, such as the phrase "because I love you," and how to recognize an unhealthy relationship. Greeks will engage in a meaningful discussion about how to be aware of abusive language. 

"It's important our members know how to spot abusive language, so this will be very beneficial to our training," said Zach Littrell, assistant director of Greek Life.   

Wednesday, Sept. 30, "Human Billboards"  

UA Greek Life will continue one of its most memorable events, "Human Billboards," by positioning Greek leaders around campus holding signs with statistics from the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network. Due to the pandemic, students will stand at a safe distance, wear face masks, and abide by the Center for Disease Control's health and safety protocols at all times. Scattered throughout campus, these signs will educate campus community members, as well as raise awareness for the constant need for support and change.  

In the evening, students will virtually meet with University of Arkansas Police Department's Col. Porter to discuss best practices for campus safety and learn how to be active bystanders in preventing assault on campus. 

Thursday, Oct. 1, "Letters to Survivors" and "Prevention Awareness"  

Greek Life members will write words of encouragement on post-it notes to survivors offering their support and promise to prevent sexual assault on campus. Chapters will share them on social media in support of sexual assault prevention and awareness.  

Star Central and R.E.S.P.E.C.T. will host a virtual documentary and discussion entitled 
"Roll Red Roll with Respect". 

Additionally, Greek Life new members will participate in the annual Sexual Assault and Violence Prevention Training program, in partnership with the NWA Center for Sexual Assault. This virtual training will teach students techniques on how to actively prevent sexual assault, end rape culture, and more.  

Friday, Oct. 2, "Take the Pledge"  

Finally, Greeks will end the week by taking the It's On Us pledge online, joining more than 440,000 people in the fight against sexual assault. Members will officially become part of the nationwide fight against sexual assault, emphasizing their commitment to the community. UA Greek Life encourages all U of A community members to take the pledge at https://www.itsonus.org/pledge/.  

The Greek community participates in It's On Us Week every year to engage and encourage members in the prevention of campus sexual assaults. 

"Our Greek organizations and members will continue to work hard to make a difference in the fight against sexual assault," said Parice Bowser, director of Greek Life. "This week emphasizes this commitment and reminds us how Razorbacks should act and lead!"  

University Housing has also teamed up with Greek Life to hang teal banners on residential facilities throughout the week. Banners were also hung on all fraternity and sorority houses. 

For more information, visit https://www.itsonus.org.