Cartoon by Maegan Moore

According to RAINN, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, every two minutes someone in the U.S. is sexually assaulted.
VSU students have the chance to show their support for rape and sexual assault victims tonight at the annual “Take Back the Night” event.
The march and candlelight vigil is held to protest rape and other forms of sexual violence against women. It will begin at 7 p.m. in front of West Hall.
This is our chance, the students of VSU, to stand up against those who have been raped, abused, molested and assaulted.
The event gives women the opportunity to speak about their experiences with sexual assault and/or rape. Tonight, as the march continues to the pedestrian walkway, one victim will be standing at the entrance of the Bailey Science Center, sharing her personal experience.
Rape and sexual assault is a national issue, a local issue and a VSU issue.
There is sexual violence happening on this campus.
According to the VSU Police Department’s statistics Web site, in 2008 there was one forcible sexual offenses, in 2007 there were three forcible sexual offences and in 2006 there were five.
While it’s not a high number, every incident of sexual violence is an issue.
Sexual violence isn’t just a female issue, but an issue for everyone.
According to RAINN, in 2003, one in every 10 rape victims was male.
Men are the solution to the rapes and sexual assaults that happen.
While both genders commit sexual assault, the majority of the abusers and rapist are men.
While “Take Back the Night” is primarily focused on female victims, it’s not a man-bashing rally. It’s important to remember that not all men are rapists and that we shouldn’t categorize them. Not all men rape and abuse women.
Men are invited and encouraged to attend the event to show their support to end sexual violence.
Whether you’ve been raped or sexually abused, know someone who has or just want to support victims, show up in front of West Hall tonight.

This editorial was written by Karah Leigh Hancock(kphancoc@valdosta.edu) and it expresses the opinion of the entire editorial staff.