The University of Toledo will join colleges across the country for Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) Day, Thursday, Sept. 25.

RAINN Day is held annually to raise awareness and educate students about sexual violence on college campuses.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Centennial Mall, UT students will display umbrellas that carry messages against violence.

“Events such as RAINN Day are a great opportunity for students to become actively engaged in educating their peers about this important issue that impacts women and men on every college campus,” said Angela Daigneault, sexual assault education prevention coordinator in the UT Counseling Center, said. “Students want to make a difference; they want to create an environment safe for everyone. This is just one of many ways that they are able to get involved and do that.”

During the event, campus and community members also can view the Clothesline Project, an initiative in which women affected by violence create T-shirts as part of their healing process.

T-shirt colors show the form of abuse: white for those who died because of violence; yellow and beige for battered and assaulted women; red, pink and orange for survivors of rape and sexual assault; blue and green for survivors of incest and sexual abuse; purple for those who were attacked because of their sexual orientation; and black for women attacked for political reasons.

“The visual expression from women who are affected by violence can be very eye-opening for students,” Daigneault said. “Every year I have students tell me how impactful seeing all of the shirts was for them. And for a survivor, creating a shirt to express their feelings and share with others; it can be a powerful part of their healing process.”

The event also will include a chance to talk with professionals from the University Counseling Center.

“Students can always visit the Sexual Assault Education and Prevention Program in Rocket Hall Room 1810 or call 419.530.3431 for assistance any time day or night,” Daigneault said. “Our goal is to create a campus community free of abuse, harassment and other forms of sexual violence.”

For more information on the free, public event or the UT Sexual Assault Education and Prevention Program, contact Daigneault at 419.530.3431 or angela.daigneault@utoledo.edu.