Photo and Story by Caleb Revill / Contributing Writer
Students were given information on domestic violence and abuse at the “Hands Not for Hurting” table in the Student Union Building as a part of MTSU’s “Take Back the Night” week.
Students at the table were also able to make the pledge not to use their hands or words for hurting themselves or others. After making the pledge, students were offered paint to stamp their hands on a large parchment paper for display.
Hands Not for Hurting is a nonprofit organization originating in Salem, Oregon, in 1997. The organization reaches out to schools across the nation, spreading the word of their pledge.
“Today’s event is to raise awareness for victims of domestic violence and abuse,” said Sarah Harris, a volunteer at the Hands Not for Hurting table in the Student Union Building.
“People come by and they take a brochure, stamp their hand and we give them flyers to raise awareness to the epidemic of domestic violence and abuse; to let people know that they don’t have to use their hands or their words to hurt people,” Harris said.
There are many more “Take Back the Night” events scheduled for this week, including:
- Tuesday, the film “It Happened Here” will be played in the KUC Theatre from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Thursday, the “Take Back the Night” event will welcome students at 7 p.m. in the Student Union Commons. Afterward, keynote speaker Olivia Gatwood will speak to students, and there will be a Candlelit Vigil at 8:30 p.m.
More information on the Hands not for Hurting project can be found here
Middle Tennessee State University prohibits all forms of domestic and sexual violence. Victims of sexual violence are encouraged to report it. Help and information on what you can do if you are a victim of sexual violence can be found here.
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