By On Tuesday, Feb. 13, Carroll College hosted its 10th annual spring fever event, “We Too Speak Out,” where six young women were brave enough to share the anonymous stories of Carroll students who have experienced sexual abuse and violence.
Abigail Robo, a junior gender studies major from Helena, said this event brings voice to the voiceless.
“It is my utter privilege to be able to provide a home for people’s personal stories,” said Robo. “I think that Carroll must host this event because often issues like sexual violence can feel far from us on campus. To know and to share these stories from the Carroll community brings awareness to the issues that are very real.”
The genesis of the We Too movement can be traced back to the Me Too movement in 2006, with the shared aim of promoting awareness around sexual assault and violence. At the core of this lies a commitment to fostering a secure environment for students on campus.
Educational institutions such as Carroll prioritize the provision of essential resources like the Friendship Center and victim advocacy services. Individuals such as Beth Demmons, health counselor at the wellness center, and Annette Walstad, Title IX coordinator, stand as pillars of support within the community embracing Carroll’s dedication to student safety.
John Ries, a theology professor from St. Louis, Missouri, said they hope that hosting these speak-out events, welcomes a “safe space and comforting environment for these doors to share.”
Carroll College plans to host yet another We Too event next year, making it the 11th year in a row. This event is a safe space for people to share their stories, anonymous or not, and raise awareness against sexual violence.
