Media Advisory: Poetry Reading Events Will Focus on Speaking Out Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence

      Topeka, Kan. – Two upcoming poetry reading events focused on speaking out against sexual assault and domestic violence serve to create community among those affected by these topics. Washburn University professor and author Dennis Etzel, Jr. and professor Dr. Jericho Hockett will take part in these events. Both events are free and open to the public.

Kansas Speaks Out: Poems in the Age of Me, Too

      The Kansas Speaks Out: Poems in the Age of Me, Too reading is happening Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Round Table Bookstore in North Topeka art district (NOTO.) The featured book is a collection of work from Kansas poets, poets with Kansas connections and poets from Kansas City, some of whom will be present for and take part in the reading. The reading will also feature the editors of the book, Washburn University professors Hockett and Etzel Jr.

      When: Saturday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m.

      Where: Round Table Bookstore

      Details: Kansas Speaks Out: Poems in the Age of Me, Too is a poetry reading about speaking against sexual assault. Free copies of the book will be available on a first-come basis, provided by Washburn’s Center for Kansas Studies.

Open-Mic Poetry Reading Against Domestic Violence

      Washburn University is having an open-mic poetry reading against domestic violence in conjunction with YWCA’s Week Without Violence with collaboration from the Washburn departments of psychology and English, and Washburn University counseling services. Washburn University professor’s Etzel and Hockett are hosting the event.

      When: Thursday, Oct. 20 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

      Where: The Memorial Union Underground, in the Memorial Union on the Washburn University campus

      Details: This event will provide a safe space for our community to speak-up and speak-out against relationship violence and sexual assault, or to share words of encouragement, empowerment and support for survivors of violence. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

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