|
The Mission:
The Mission of the Bar Light Campaign is to raise awareness, within Athens’ bars, about the issue
of sexual violence as well as the resources available for sexual violence survivors within the Athens community. Further,
the campaign strives to make downtown Athens’ bars safer for patrons.
The Vision:
Our intention is to recognize that bars are a positive aspect of the Athens community- they are important businesses for
our local economy and also a means of recreation and fun for the entire Athens community. We want to promote a safe and healthy
downtown experience for bar patrons, employees, and the Athens community at large.
Background:
It is estimated that 90% of all acquaintance rapes involve alcohol; further, 70-95% of all rapes are committed by someone
known to the victim (PCAR 2003). One is more likely to be assaulted by a friend, co-worker, classmate, date, relative, and/or
acquaintance than by a stranger "lurking in the bushes."
Most people drink to have fun with friends and loved ones and do so in a safe manner that respects their personal limits
with alcohol as well as the limits of their friends. Some people; however, use alcohol as a means to violate, coerce and/or
manipulate others into unwanted sexual activity. People have sexually assaulted others and have been able to use the excuse
"we were both drunk" to relinquish them from responsibility despite the fact that a person who is intoxicated cannot legally
consent to sex. This campaign will raise awareness about the issue of sexual consent and alcohol.
Alcohol is the #1 date rape drug. Others include Ketamine, GBH, and Rohypnol. The effects of these drugs are often visible
to observers looking at the individual who has ingested them. This campaign will also raise awareness about the effects of
date rape drugs.
For more information about becoming involved with the Center's 2nd Annual Bar Light Campaign, contact
Pam Sczcygiel at pssac@bellsouth.net or at 706-546-1133.
|
