Baton Rouge community holds marches for domestic violence and sexual assault awareness

In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, two distinct marches took place to address issues of violence and safety.

A coalition of student organizations at Louisiana State University (LSU) concluded a week of action with a march to the Athletic Administration Building. The protesters demanded justice regarding the administration’s handling of a rape case involving a football player and called for the reinstatement of the school’s Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Office. Students also protested the closure of campus cultural centers, which they argued served as essential safe spaces and mentorship hubs.

Separately, the nonprofit The Butterfly Society organized the annual ‘Break the Silence’ march in downtown Baton Rouge to mark the end of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The event included a visual memorial outside City Hall featuring empty chairs and shoes to honor victims of domestic abuse. Organizers emphasized the need for continuous support for survivors beyond awareness campaigns.