Iowa State Fraternity Theta Chi recently held their annual Candlelight Vigil to raise awareness for sexual assault and domestic violence. The event, which took place on February 26, 2025, at the Campanile on Union Drive in Ames, Iowa, drew a crowd of students, faculty, and community members, including Iowa State President Wendy Wintersteen.
Sam Perez, the vice president of health and safety for Theta Chi, shared that the fraternity has been organizing this vigil once every semester for the past 12 years. For Perez, the vigil holds personal significance as he has friends and family members who have been affected by these issues.
Denise Denton, the health and safety advisor for Theta Chi, emphasized the importance of the event in shedding light on the prevalence of sexual abuse and domestic violence. She mentioned that the fraternity’s sacred purpose initiative aims to address mental health, substance abuse, and safety concerns, advocating for a community-wide effort to support survivors.
John Fleming, advisor emeritus for Theta Chi, highlighted the significance of raising awareness about these underreported issues. He noted that victims often hesitate to report incidents of assault or abuse due to fear, and events like the Candlelight Vigil help create a supportive environment for those in need.
Natasha Greene, a sexual assault team member from the Iowa State Police Department, shared her insights on the broader impact of sexual violence on individuals and communities. With years of experience working with survivors, Greene stressed the importance of community involvement in addressing these critical topics.
President Wendy Wintersteen’s presence at the vigil underscored the university’s commitment to combating sexual violence. Wintersteen encouraged students to engage in programs like Green Dot and Green Flag to help prevent instances of sexual violence on campus.
The Candlelight Vigil organized by Theta Chi serves as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to address issues of sexual assault and domestic violence. By coming together as a community, individuals can support survivors, raise awareness, and work towards creating a safer environment for all.
Community Engagement and Support
The participation of students, faculty, and community members at the Candlelight Vigil reflects a shared commitment to promoting awareness and supporting survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Events like these provide a platform for open dialogue, education, and advocacy, fostering a culture of empathy and understanding within the community.
Resources and Action
In addition to attending events like the Candlelight Vigil, individuals can take proactive steps to address sexual violence and domestic abuse. Organizations such as Iowa State’s Police Department Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) offer 24/7 immediate assistance and resources for those in need. By accessing these support services and seeking training through programs like Green Dot and Green Flag, community members can play a vital role in prevention and intervention efforts.
The Iowa State community’s commitment to raising awareness about sexual assault and domestic violence through initiatives like the Theta Chi Candlelight Vigil reflects a shared dedication to creating a safer and more supportive environment for all individuals. By fostering dialogue, providing resources, and advocating for change, community members can work together to address these critical issues and support survivors in their healing journey.
