NDSU Protesters Rally Against Rape Culture and Sexual Violence

Students and community members gathered at Churchill Field on Sunday, Nov. 1, for an "End Rape Culture" protest organized by North Dakota State University's Women's Activist Organization (WAO).

The demonstration, held from 2 to 4 p.m., aimed to raise awareness about sexual violence, challenge attitudes that contribute to rape culture and encourage conversations about supporting survivors.

Protesters stood near the roadway holding homemade signs as music played from a large speaker. Throughout the demonstration, passing drivers honked their horns and passengers waved in support.

The event attracted more than just NDSU students. Community members of different ages, including older adults, joined the demonstration to show solidarity with those advocating against sexual violence.

The protest followed two sign-making events hosted by WAO on Oct. 27 and 29 in the Memorial Union. During those gatherings, participants had the opportunity to create signs for the demonstration and learn about protest etiquette.

Izzy Eskuchen, vice president of WAO, previously explained that the organization wanted to provide students with an opportunity to speak out against rape culture while creating an environment where people with different perspectives could participate in conversations about sexual violence.

"I think it's important to make a big deal out of things that are a big deal," Eskuchen said in an interview ahead of the protest. "So they don't keep flying under the radar."

For NDSU student Melissa Egan, attending the demonstration was an opportunity to advocate for greater awareness and education about sexual assault, particularly on college campuses.

Egan emphasized that sexual violence does not always involve strangers. She expressed concern that students may not fully recognize how sexual assault can occur between people who already know and trust one another.

"It's not talked about enough," Egan said.

She believes more education is necessary to help students recognize potentially dangerous situations and better understand the circumstances in which sexual violence can occur.

Egan also expressed concern about how sexual assault is addressed by institutions, saying she would like to see additional resources available to students and greater attention given to survivors' experiences.

"I also think that the administration should have more resources," Egan said.

She added that she sometimes feels concern about sexual assault not being taken seriously enough.

Beyond raising awareness, Egan said she wanted survivors to know their experiences deserve to be acknowledged and heard.

She emphasized that people who have experienced sexual violence may struggle with self-doubt and encouraged survivors not to question the validity of their experiences.

"You're so strong, and you are a survivor," Egan said.

Egan also expressed the importance of ensuring survivors feel safe sharing their experiences and seeking support.

The demonstration brought together students and Fargo community members to advocate against sexual violence. As protesters held their signs and passing vehicles signaled their support, the event provided a public space for participants to raise awareness and encourage continued conversations about rape culture and survivor support.