The Work is Just Getting Started
Photo from The Advocate
Accountability.
A word that encompasses what LSU student-athletes, faculty and staff are looking for.
Beginning on Monday, April 4, LSU launched a week-long series of events with A Call to Men, an organization committed to educating and supporting male-identified individuals to become allies to women and girls. The organization tackles subjects including domestic violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, gender discrimination and racial discrimination.
A Call to Men offers trainings and other resources to countless organizations, ranging from the NFL, to the U.S. Army, to Uber. If you are not familiar with the organization, this TED TALK will provide you with some insight into their mission. Also known for partnering with universities, A Call to Men began its week at LSU with an event primarily targeting the athletic department, but opening doors to the whole Baton Rouge community as well.
In the Monday night event hosted by LSU Human Resources Manager Milan Stokes, athletes and community members had the opportunity to hear from A Call to Men CEO Tony Porter, in addition to several other educators and trainers from the organization. Complimenting the speakers from A Call to Men, attendees heard inspiring speeches from LSU Track & Field Head Coach Dennis Shaver, and LSU Volleyball Head Coach Tonya Johnson. Associate Athletic Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Ashleigh Clare-Kearney Thigpen also spoke alongside Eddie St-Vil, LSU’s director of training and leadership development.
Attendees were educated on statistics regarding domestic violence and sexual assault, and while this information can be jarring and disappointing, it can also serve as a learning opportunity. A Call to Men’s professional message delivery provided a safe space for the audience to receive the difficult content in a gentle manner. One athlete specifically resonated with the words delivered by A Call to Men trainer Afua Addo.
“She spoke with calmness, but conviction in the same breath,” said LSU Volleyball player Alia Williams.
While the speakers enlightened the audience, perhaps the most powerful moment came when Porter asked all the men in the room to stand if they are committed to being an ally for women and girls.
“My favorite part of the night was when the men stood up and had to look each other in the eyes to hold one another accountable,” said LSU Beach Volleyball player Ellie Shank.
Porter elevated his request when he asked the men to look at each other in the eye, and remember the moment. This simple action would ensure the moment resonated with each man, but also all the women in the arena who would be moved by their decision to support and empower one another.
Following the kick-starter event, A Call to Men met with each athletic team individually for further education and connection. It was in these sessions that men and women could open up about their own experiences in a more intimate environment. It was also when accountability continued to emerge as a theme.
“If you know a guy who’s treating a girl wrong, call them out,” said LSU Track & Field thrower Luke Witte.
The idea of “silence is violence” came up in several team discussions, and regardless of individual opinions on the statement, athletes agreed that holding one another accountable must become a core value within LSU Athletics, and within LSU as an institution.
We do it within our sport, every day at practice, and with each competition that comes and goes. Now, it is time we continue our efforts outside of those walls.
