LA MIRADA, CALIF. — Biola University is hosting a series of events including a self-defense workshop in support of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), which is observed annually during April.

On Monday, April 22, Biola will hold a Rape Aggression Defense System (RADS) self-defense workshop for students, staff and faculty. Using an interactive approach, attendees will practice self-defense maneuvers on willing instructors and participants, resulting in learning protection in dangerous, physical situations. Additionally, they will be taught how to respond to verbal abuse and see the warning signs of abuse in relationships.

FOR DAY OF COVERAGE

What: RADS self-defense workshop led by Biola Campus Safety officers for students, staff and faculty to learn and practice tactics to keep themselves safe in potentially harmful situations in observation of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Practice gear will be supplied and demonstrations with instructors will take place.

When: Monday, April 22, 2024, 7 p.m.

Who: Biola University students, staff and faculty

Where: Biola University, 13800 Biola Ave. La Mirada, CA. Kim Dining Room

On-Site Media Contact: Sarah Dougher, (310) 753-1193, sarah.m.dougher@biola.edu

Harassment, assault, and abuse are taken seriously at Biola. By inviting the Biola community to come together and continue to cultivate a community centered on respect, inclusion, and safety, the Biola campus strives to live out the 2024 SAAM theme, “Better Together.”

Other events have been held throughout the month, happening every Monday:

  • April 8: Self-Defense Workshop where Biola communications professor, Dr. Timothy Meuhlhoff led a self-defense workshop, educating participants on verbal and physical abuse and taught real physical self-defense tactics to the participants.

  • April 15: OC United Panel went over how to identify the signs of verbal, physical and emotional abuse in our relationships and in those of people close to us.

  • April 22: RADS Self-Defense Workshop.

  • April 24: Denim day observed.

Biola University Student Development organized the events for SAAM with the theme "Better Together" to raise awareness of sexual violence and how to prevent it. The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) recognizes that we can stop and prevent sexual harassment and abuse before it happens by learning to communicate well with one another.