'It's on Us' Video Shines Light on National Movement

The responsibility to take a stand against sexual violence on campus is on us, the SUNY Buffalo State community, and now there’s a movement to help spread the message on campus.

The college recently introduced the “It’s On Us” campaign, a national initiative started in 2014 to foster conversations about sexual assault awareness and prevention. Buffalo State has signed on to become one of over 250 registered campus chapters to join the movement for the 2019–2020 school year.

A new video on the Dean of Students website shows students, faculty, and staff members speaking about crucial ways to prevent assault, including safe transportation, giving and receiving verbal consent, and recognizing signs of control or manipulation.

Nina Pierino, Buffalo State’s sexual violence prevention coordinator, discussed the importance behind the video and bringing the “It’s On Us” movement to Buffalo State.

“The context behind the video was to highlight student leaders and staff in different areas on campus to show our commitment as a campus community to preventing sexual violence across all areas,” Pierino said. 

“This campaign is important to Buffalo State, as we want to let students know they are heard and supported here on campus and to give them a voice to speak out about sexual violence.”

Many students have already signed the pledge, which is both a commitment to bystander intervention and a show of solidarity with fellow students who may have experienced sexual violence.

Give your support to sexual assault prevention by taking the pledge online and by signing up to be a volunteer for Take Back the Night 2020 on the Dean of Students website, or by contacting Pierino.