January 21, 2020
National Stalking Awareness Month events
The K-State Center for Advocacy, Response and Education, or CARE, invites the K-State community to join us at several events for National Stalking Awareness Month.
National Stalking Awareness Month began in response to the 2003 murder of stalking victim Peggy Klinke. Klinke's sister, Debbie Riddle, wanted to change the tragedy into triumph by helping improve law enforcement's response to stalking. In January 2004, the National Center for Victims of Crime launched the first observance of National Stalking Awareness Month and supported communities across the national planning events. In 2011, under the Obama administration, the White House issued the first presidential proclamation on National Stalking Awareness Month.
The following are events to learn, have dialogue and help spread awareness about stalking:
- "Stalking in Hollywood" tabling events from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Jan. 21 and Jan. 23 in the K-State Student Union. We will explore the experiences of celebrities who have experienced stalking and discuss the ways media romanticizes stalking, creating myths and misconceptions.
- "Cyberstalking" tabling events happening from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Jan. 27 and Jan. 31 in the K-State Student Union where we will uncover the realities of cyberstalking. Cyberstalking is the use of the internet or other electronic devices to stalk or harass an individual. Cyberstalking is usually not a single occurring crime, often the perpetrator will stalk their victim physically as well. Perpetrators are motivated to stalk a victim(s) to gain control, intimidate, or influence them.
- In collaboration with K-State Safe Zone, CARE will host an Advanced Safe Zone training titled "Cyberstalking" from noon to 1 p.m. on Jan. 30 in Room 112, Leadership Studies Building. K-State students, staff, faculty and Manhattan community members are invited to attend and learn about the definition and components of cyberstalking, prevalence of cyberstalking on college campuses across the nation, long-term effects cyberstalking has on victims/survivors' well-being, and ways to support victims/survivors who experience(d) cyberstalking.
CARE advocates are available to meet with K-State students, faculty and staff members who have experienced sexual violence, dating or domestic violence, stalking, or sexual harassment. Advocates offer support and aid survivors in exploring their options.
For more information or to set up an appointment, call 785-532-6444 or email ksucare@k-state.edu.