Redhawks Rising works for change

The executive board of Redhawks Rising met Thursday to discuss their agenda for the coming year and prepare for an open meeting on Sept. 14. Redhawks Rising is a student organization dedicated to the support of victims of sexual assault.

“We want to normalize the conversation and get people talking about it, to feel comfortable talking about it, or at least know that there are people to talk to about it,” President of Redhawks Rising Mahala Landeros said.

The Sept. 14 open meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. in the Heritage Room of the University Center. Those who attend will have an opportunity to talk about their experiences, concerns and ideas. The meeting will discuss the organization’s purpose and values, announce upcoming events and outline membership guidelines, according to Landeros.

They have been on campus since 2016, and their campaign efforts last year contributed to multiple changes to Southeast’s Code of Student Conduct, including an increase in the mandatory fine for sexual assault from $50 to $200.

“I cried tears of happiness when I saw the changes,” Landeros said. “It was definitely a step in the right direction, but we’re ready to see more changes made.”

The campaign that sparked campus policy changes has received national attention and their video presentation has reached upwards of 35,000 views. They gave presentations last year to the entire Greek student body as well as the football team and a handful of other organizations. They will continue sharing the presentation this year along with other events that include sex-talks, self-defense classes and ad-campaigns.

“I was so happy to hear about this program,” prospective member Yvonne Lippert said. “Not enough people support the victims of sexual violence. Seeing this program here at my school where I can help make a difference means the world to me. Even if it’s just coming to an event and meeting survivors and supporters.”

According to Landeros, Redhawks Rising is open to everyone.

“You have a hurting past?” Landeros said. “Come here, so do I.”

To learn more about Redhawks Rising and see the campaign video that brought them recognition visit Facebook.com/RedhawksRising.