Safe Dating Habits for Teens – Session 2

Learn how to stop and prevent dating violence, victimization, and perpetration, including physical and sexual abuse that may occur between youth in a dating relationship.

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the New Orleans Public Library has partnered with STAR to provide education about sexual and dating violence throughout April.

About the Series: This combined discussion and independent-viewing program for middle and high school students is presented by Sexual Trauma Awareness and Response (STAR), a nonprofit organization committed to serving youth and adult survivors of sexual trauma and building institutional capacity to prevent and respond responsibly to sexual violence in the community.

Session Descriptions:

• April 1: This live session provides an introduction to Safe Dates, including what the program covers and how to sign up for the virtual training program. There will also be an introduction to STAR New Orleans and an overview of STAR’s services, as well as the mandated reporting requirements for STAR staff.
• April 15: This live session will be a recap of the topics covered in the first three virtual sessions: ‘Defining Caring Relationships and Dating Abuse,’ ‘Why Do People Abuse,’ and ‘How to Help Friends.’ This session will also answer any questions that you may have and provide basic support for the training. If you were not able to attend the introductory live session, that is ok.
• April 29: The final live session will recap the last three virtual sessions of Safe Dates: ‘Gender Stereotypes and Equal Power Through Communication,’ ‘How We Feel, How We Deal,’ and ‘Preventing Sexual Assault.’ Additionally, there will be a full recap of the virtual training in close, answering any questions comments or concerns that you may have, and reiterating resources that STAR New Orleans offers.

Since 2014, all public high schools in Louisiana are required to provide “appropriate classroom instruction relative to dating violence,” (Children’s Code in LA R.S. 17:81). However, STAR’s Community Education Director Angela Golden said many schools do not have the resources available to comply with the mandate, which is where their organization comes in.

The Safe Dates series aligns with the New Orleans Public Library’s vision to be a catalyst for change in New Orleans and to provide equal services and opportunities to all.

Safe Dates kicks off April 1 at 5:15pm, followed by live sessions on April 15 and April 29. For details and registration, visit nolalibrary.org/events.