Arts de Valentine
A masqued show of sensual delights, Arts de Valentine celebrates the beautiful and varied expressions of love, sensuality and eroticism through visual art, dance, performance art and music. It creates an extravagant evening during which the adventurous are invited to dress imaginatively and to view or purchase thought-provoking and sensuously evocative work for their own enjoyment. The proceeds from admittance and a portion of art sales directly benefit the Rape Response program of the Crisis Center. In addition, the Wine Loft will offer an impeccable selection of wines and a menu of tapas available.
Rape Response
Rape Response is a sex-positive program that considers consent to be of the utmost importance in all intimate encounters. The program provides advocacy and counseling to survivors of sexual violence and serves a 5-county area of north-central Alabama. Our advocates support survivors while they undergo forensic examinations, police interviews and court appearances. We are here to believe in and support survivors. Rape Response believes that sexuality is something that should be freely expressed without the fear of sexual violence.
Common Ground
Without open and honest communication we cannot embrace consent. The Rape Response program and Arts de Valentine share the same concerns at heart. This event creates and promotes an open dialogue about positive and consensual expressions of what we all have in common.
How will we teach younger generations to be intimate without hurting each other if we cannot first acknowledge our common ground? We must have direct conversations about the human expression in all of its varied forms. Removing stigma and shame is the first step in making our communities better for survivors, and ensuring that fewer people experience sexual violence in the future. Taking this step also allows us to create a safe and empathetic space where survivors can begin their journey to healing.
To learn more about this program, to donate or for volunteer opportunities, please visit: http://www.crisiscenterbham.com/rape-response.php