Coasters Educate Patrons About Consent

By Katy K -

As the month of April begins, we here at Transitions are preparing for another sexual assault awareness month.  It is during this month that we focus on spreading awareness and informing the community about sexual assault, its prevalence, its effects, and who it can happen to.  This year, during the month of April, one of our focuses is on sexual assault and alcohol use.

According to the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape (PCAR), alcohol is involved in more incidents of sexual violence than any other drug.  When an individual is under the influence of alcohol, even if they consent to drinking, they may not be able to make sound decisions.  If they participate in sexual activities, it can be considered rape.  A drunken person (man or woman) is unable to give consent when they are drunk.  Giving someone alcohol in hopes that they will loosen up or lower their inhibitions and have sex is rape.

Some people may not realize that using alcohol in this manner is rape.  So, it is important to inform the community, male, female, young, and old.  To help spread the message and emphasize the connection between sexual assault and alcohol use, Transitions is working with local area bars: The Bull Run Inn, Lewisburg Hotel, Smiling Chameleon, Vic’s Pub, and Town Tavern.  Transitions will be placing coasters in each of these bars that state “Using alcohol to get sex is rape”.

Through partnering with these local bars we hope to get the word out and educate the local community about sexual assault.  So, next time you’re out in Lewisburg keep your eye open for these special Sexual Assault Awareness coasters.

 
Submitted by Sara G.

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