Ball State University students can learn about how to prevent abusive relationships at Kappa Delta's "Stand Up! Stand Out!" speaker panel tonight.
The event, which will start at 7:30 p.m. in Pruis Hall, is open to everyone.
"I feel that young women sometimes do not understand what an abusive relationship consists of," sophomore Lauren Wood said, a Kappa Delta member and criminal justice major. "A lot of Kappa Delta philanthropy helps and empowers women to reach their full potential, which is why we put on this event every year."
Ball State's victim advocate Michele Cole will speak at the event about how abusive relationships work and what they look like.
"Michele Cole will be defining physical and emotional abusive relationships," Wood said. "She will also be offering assistance to those who feel that they are involved in an unhealthy relationship."
Cole also will bring a panel of people who have been in abusive relationships to talk about their experiences.
Tracy Bemis-Smiley, a victim advocate for A Better Way, a local nonprofit agency that provides shelter and services for victims of domestic violence, said college students must be aware of the dangers of domestic violence because it affects everyone.
"It does not matter about your race, education or other background," she said.
Bemis-Smiley said college students have a chance to learn about different types of events that are red flags of an unhealthy relationship in order to prevent future abusive relationships.
Wood said she would encourage students driving to Stand Up! Stand Out! to park in the parking garage behind Pruis Hall.
A Better WayThe organization provides assistance to female victims of domestic abuse. It also provides shelter to women and their children for up to 45 days. During this time, the organization will help victims set goals to obtaining a more peaceful life.If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, there are ways to get help.
Students can contact:A Better Way: 765-747-9107Or A Better Way's crisis help line: 765-288-HELP
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