Students gather to rock against rape

The stage of the Cherry Street Artisan lit up last night, decorated with a banner that read "Stronger Together Against Rape" as the café waited for the beginning of Rock Against Rape.

By Meg Walsh

Published April 21, 2006

The stage of the Cherry Street Artisan lit up Thursday night, decorated with a banner that read "Stronger Together Against Rape" as the café waited for the beginning of Rock Against Rape.

The Artisan played host to the second benefit concert last night, organized by Stronger Together Against Rape, known as STAR, to raise awareness of rape and sexual assault.

STAR began the night by thanking its advisers, Peer Rape Educators, Greek Advocates, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Resource Center and others. The Maneater also was a co-sponsor of the event.

The first act on stage was Zach George, a guitarist and singer.

George, an MU junior, said he heard STAR was looking for people to play, and he thought it was a good cause. He played original songs as well as covers.

Cheryl Neiman, sophomore and STAR volunteer, said the group chose to have the event at the Artisan because the café agreed not to serve alcohol during or after the event. Aja Junior, freshman and member of STAR, said she was proud of the event.

"We had a wide turnout," Junior said. "Probably because of all the advertising we did."

Sara Cleveland, co-coordinator in the Rape Education Office, said this was her first year working with Rock Against Rape but she heard the event had previously succeeded.

"We're hoping this event will increase awareness about rape and sexual assault," she said. "We also hope it will raise money for the LEAD Institute and The Shelter, a home for victims of domestic violence, and let people know about student groups they can get involved in such as STAR, Men Against Rape and Sexual Assault, Peer Rape Educators and Greek Advocates."

Stephanie Zirk, a sophomore and member of STAR, said she thinks events such as Rock Against Rape succeed because students put it on and because music attracts college students.

Senior Mandy Hall enjoyed the free live show from a couch in the Artisan.

"This is a community I've been involved in since I started at MU," she said. "Even if you aren't learning facts, it's important to be involved and see the community."