Throughout the month of January, advocates for victims and survivors focus on spreading awareness of the issue, as well as provide local and national resources for victims of stalking. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to heighten awareness of this issue and show their solidarity and support by wearing a silver ribbon, available for free in Advising, Counseling & Career Services as well as Student Life. According to The National Center for Victims of Crime’s Stalking Resource Center, the silver ribbon’s “reflective, colorless surface illustrates not only the invisibility of the crime (to everyone except the victim), but also mirrors what stalking victims often report they experience: the need to constantly check over their shoulder for the stalker,” (National Center for Victims of Crime, 2016).

Anyone experiencing stalking should reach out to the LLCC Police Department (217.786.2278) or their local police department. Guidelines as to what constitutes stalking, fact sheets and victim resources can be found at the Stalking Resource Center’s website under “Resources.” If you wish to help promote Stalking Awareness Month at LLCC, contact Leslie Johnson, AVP, Student Success.