On August 18, 2015, the Department of Housing and Residence Life teamed up with UCAPD and the Division of Student Services to sponsor Carnival Night.
A carnival atmosphere was created with cotton candy, pineapple whip, and a rock climbing wall along with multiple “booths” hosting carnival games such as darts and football toss.
Each activity also included an educational component that was incorporated into the game. The activities each targeted at least one of the following objectives:
- Educate students on the components of a positive relationship.
- Accurate definition and understanding of intimacy.
- The role of communication and consent in all aspects of the relationship.
- Identify warning signs of abusive behavior.
- Have students consider their personal identity and the role of actions within that identity.
- Increase student knowledge concerning the definition of:
- Consent
- Domestic Violence
- Dating Violence
- Sexual Assault
- Sexual Harassment
- Sexual Misconduct
- Stalking
- Educate students on safe and positive options that a bystander can take when he or she witnesses potential domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
- Create student buy-in for university’s statement prohibiting domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
The event was a huge success with over 520 students checking in, and 290 students completing four activities and receiving a free t-shirt.
Additionally, 62 students completed a post event assessment that was sent two days after the event.
Student responses on the survey displayed understanding of key concepts such as bystander intervention, intimacy, and consent.
Some student comments included:
“Carnival Night was a fun way to give students information they will need for some situations.”
“I am more knowledgeable about things concerning safe and positive options I can take to keep myself and others safe.”
“Carnival Night is an excellent thing and should be continued for years to come.”