Sexual Assault Awareness Month
The following was sent to all members of the Boston University Community on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 from Dr. Judy Platt, MD, Chief Health Officer and Executive Director of Student Health Services.
Dear Members of our Boston University Community,
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and this year’s theme—community and collaboration—reflects the understanding that no single office, policy, or program can create safety on its own. That work belongs to all of us, both individually and collectively. This month serves as a reminder that the community we want is one we must build together.
Throughout April, BU is offering opportunities designed to raise awareness, build knowledge and skills, deepen connections, and strengthen the system of care that defines a thriving campus community. I encourage everyone to engage in these events.
The Alabama Solution Film Screening
April 2, 6 – 8:30 PM, Howard Thurman Center
Students, faculty, and staff are invited to a special in-person screening and community discussion of this Oscar-nominated documentary that exposes the systemic injustice experienced by people incarcerated in Alabama prisons. Told through their own voices, the film examines how the carceral system is used to respond to sexual violence, and how this connects to prevention efforts and impacts survivors’ sense of bodily autonomy. This event is co-sponsored by Survivor Advocacy, Response & Prevention (SARP), the Howard Thurman Center, BU Prison Outreach Initiative, and the BU Law Public Interest Law Society. RSVP here.
Rosie’s Place Toiletry Drive and Brunch
April 11, 11 AM – 2 PM, George Sherman Union
We invite all community members to join One Love at BU in honoring Rosie’s Place, a multi-service community center in Boston that offers women emergency shelter, meals, and so much more. A free light brunch is available (while tickets last) to attendees who bring toiletries or a book donation for this amazing cause. Learn more.
Media Fair and “Passion to Poison“ Movie Bingo
April 13, 12 – 4 PM, Howard Thurman Center
Students are invited to a media fair inspired by the One Love training on the 10 signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships, featuring a fresh take on How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Using a bingo card, students can reflect on how this romantic comedy has shaped views on relationships, for better or worse. The media fair will also include book reviews, podcast recommendations, a raffle, free food from Saxbys, and opportunities for thoughtful discussion on consent and healthy relationships with event co-sponsors. RSVP here.
Supporting Survivors: Tools, Boundaries, and Resources
April 15, 12 – 12:45 PM, Zoom
In this Faculty & Staff Assistance Office (FSAO) and SARP co-hosted workshop, students, faculty, and staff will learn ways to support survivors, including friends, loved ones, and students. Topics will include best practices for offering support, boundary setting, self-care, and resources available at BU and in the broader community. Register here.
BU Denim Day
April 29, 11 AM – 2 PM Locations across the Medical and Charles River Campuses
Denim Day is an international movement to end victim-blaming and challenge myths about sexual violence. To raise awareness, spark discussion, and show support, all BU community members are encouraged to wear denim and an “Ask Me About My Denim!” pin, available through SARP. You are encouraged to pick up a Denim Day pin at the SARP office throughout the month of April. Visit Denim Day tables on the Medical Campus in the Instructional Building and on the Charles River Campus at Warren Towers, Claflin Hall, and Towers Lawn.
Participating in Sexual Assault Awareness Month can be challenging for survivors. If you or someone you care about has been impacted by sexual violence, you are not alone. The Chief Health Office and our campus partners offer support services for the BU community:
For Students – Student Health Services’ Survivor Advocacy, Response & Prevention (SARP) provides free, confidential, and trauma-informed counseling, accompaniment, and 24/7 advocacy support to all BU students who have experienced a traumatic event. To access these services, call 617-353-7277.
For Faculty & Staff – The Faculty & Staff Assistance Office (FSAO) offers free and confidential mental health support for personal, work-related, and family concerns. This includes assessments, short-term counseling, referrals to mental healthcare, and identity-based resources to promote wellbeing. To access services, call 617-353-5381 or submit a form online.
I am grateful to the students, faculty, and staff across this university who make this work possible. Together, we can build the community we aspire to be.
Judy T. Platt, MD (she/her)
Chief Health Officer
Executive Director, Student Health Services
Boston University