From University of Chicago Athletics
University of Chicago Athletics & Recreation is partnering with the "It's On Us" campaign to increase awareness and seek solutions to stop sexual assault.
Monday, April 17 marks the "It's On Us" Student-Athlete National Day of Action. The 19 UChicago varsity sports teams are working together on campus to spread awareness about sexual assault, promote collaborative methods to prevent sexual assault, and provide support to victims.
"Two of our track and field athletes, John Schultz and Nick Lyon, have been amazing leaders in the 'It's on Us' campus campaign," said Head Women's Soccer Coach Amy Reifert. "They secured funding from the Uncommon Fund to purchase 'It's On Us' t-shirts for every varsity athlete on campus so that we can raise awareness of sexual assault. One day a month, starting with the National Day of Action this Monday, athletes will wear their t-shirts to promote awareness. Their passion, perseverance and attention to detail has been amazing in this effort."
Schultz is a junior pole vaulter for men's track and field while Lyon – a former UChicago men's pole vaulter as well – is attending the Pritzker School of Medicine after earning his A.B. in 2016.
"Sexual assault is a problem at colleges and universities across the nation," the duo remarked. "We, as student-athletes, felt that we had a powerful voice which could be used to show strength, unity, and support for survivors and against sexual violence. We are incredibly grateful for the turnout and involvement of all the athletes. This would never have been possible without the continuous support from Coach Amy Reifert. We cannot thank Coach Reifert enough for her dedication to this cause."
To find out more about "It's On Us", visit: http://itsonus.org/
View the UChicago Athletics "It's On Us" PSA video below (courtesy of Aleksandra Majka):