The Art of C.H.A.N.G.E. Exhibit appeared on the main floor of Rod Library on Monday, Nov. 3. The display features creative works from both survivors of sexual abuse and supporters of the organization. It’s a place for them to express their emotions and share their story. Founded by former UNI student Karrah Bates in 2020, it has become a place for individuals to express their emotions and share their story. 

Since then, the exhibit has been seen as a light to those who’ve experienced harmful assault and a way to spread awareness on the college campus. 

“When people realize our UNI community is the one who put together the art, it’s inspirational,” said Brenda White, UNI’s investigator and prevention specialist.

The exhibit is one of the many displays and outreach events put on by UNI’s Office of Civil Rights Compliance (OCRC), an organization dedicated to upholding students’ civil rights and fostering an inclusive environment within the college atmosphere. 

According to Hayden Burke, OCRC’s graduate assistant for gender violence prevention, the purpose extends far beyond simply raising awareness on campus and in the surrounding community.

“Karrah Bates’ hope for the exhibit was to utilize survivors’ works to promote their stories,” said Burke.

The exhibit will remain on display in Rod Library through Dec. 19. Students, faculty and community members are encouraged to visit the artwork and witness the strength and courage that define those who’ve experienced harmful violence.

The Art of C.H.A.N.G.E. serves as a symbol of not only hope but a voice for the voiceless. If you have or are currently experiencing sexual assault, help is available. On campus, you can reach the OCRC office at 117 Gilchrist Hall. You can also contact them at 319-237-2846 or [email protected].

Other options include reaching out to the on-campus counseling center located in office 103 at the Student Health Center. You can also contact them at 319-237-2676. For 24/7 off-campus support that’s confidential, you can call the Riverview Center (sexual assault and advocacy) at 888-557-0310 or text “IOWAHELP” to 20121.