GW’s Students Against Sexual Assault and the Loveisrespect Campus Network hosted a screening of the film “The Hunting Ground” and a panel discussion on the issues discussed in the movie as part of Dating Violence Awareness Month.

The panel discussion featured three representatives from the national organization End Rape on Campus – Annie Clark, Andrea Pino and Sofie Karasek – and GW senior, Maya Weinstein.

The four activists, all survivors of sexual assault, shared their thoughts about the sexual assault epidemic on college campuses. Here are some of the key take-aways:

1. It’s on students to end the rape epidemic

The speakers drew on the national “It’s On Us” campaign, reminding the audience it is up to students to end the sexual violence they see on campuses.

“This problem is happening everywhere,” Pino said.

2. Providing help and resources to survivors

The recovery process is different for all victims and is often long and full of ups and downs, Clark said.

But most importantly, recovery is about “what’s best for you,” Clark said.

Karasek added that it’s essential to recognize that recovery can be long and exhausting.

“It’s okay to not be okay,” Karasek said.

3. When dating and sexual assault intersect

The panelists also offered guidance and shared personal experiences on what to do when a sexual assault happens in the context of a relationship.

“It’s really important students know what an unhealthy relationship looks like,” Karasek said, noting this trend in sexual assault cases.

Weinstein spoke about her personal experiences with both sexual assault and dating violence, citing the “vulnerability effect.” She told the audience how her sexual assault made her feel vulnerable enough to engage in a relationship that wasn’t healthy.

Pino said the effects of dating violence can affect other parts of a survivor’s life.

“There’s a fear of not being able to be a student anymore,” Pino said.

She added that education on what constitutes a healthy relationship could help peers recognize the signs sooner.

4. An incomplete fight

Clark said that while statistics are reflecting that colleges are paying more attention to sexual violence, the fight is far from over.

“We have a long way to go,” Clark said.

“There is no reason not to educate, it just has to happen,” Weinstein added.