University Communications and Marketing

MSU Billings' One in Five Film Festival shines light on sexual assault

Third annual festival features first film viewing on Oct. 15

3/24/20 - Please note that the original link to The Hunting Ground which was included in this press release is no longer functioning, so it has been replaced with a new one.

University Communications and Marketing, 657-2266

MSU BILLINGS NEWS—The Phoenix Center and Women’s and Gender Studies Center (WGSC) at Montana State University Billings will host the third annual One in Five Film Festival beginning Oct. 15.

All events in the festival are free, open to the public, and will explore the issue of sexual assault not only on college campuses, but in everyday life. Like the event title states, one in five women have experienced some kind of sexual assault in their lifetimes. Educating others and raising awareness about what goes on in our schools and communities is the goal of this festival.

“Conversations about sexual assault are crucial right now, especially in light of the national conversation about believing and supporting survivors,” says WGSC director and Associate Professor of History Jennifer Lynn, Ph.D. “The campus plays an important role in raising awareness about sexual assault, providing support for survivors, and creating a culture of respect and prevention. The films we show allow space for conversation, education, and reflection.”

On Monday, Oct. 15, the film “The Hunting Ground” will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Art House Cinema and Pub, which creates a great opportunity to engage with the community. “The Hunting Ground” is an award-winning documentary highlighting the staggering statistics of sexual assault on United States college campuses, including institutions’ cover-ups and the devastating toll they take on students. Learn more about the film.

The festival’s second film, “I Am Evidence” shows at 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 22 in the MSU Billings Liberal Arts Building room 205. This film focuses on how sexual assault cases have been handled by authorities in the United States. Hundreds of rape kits are left untested every year, and those affected will continue to fight injustice. Learn more about the film.

To wrap up this year’s event, viewing for the documentary “The Mask You Live In” begins at 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 29 in LA Room 205. “The Mask You Live In” explores how society’s definition of masculinity has affected growing boys. This film focuses on sensitive events in men’s lives and what we can do to change them for the better.

Snacks and prizes will be available for guests at each showing.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In honor of this month, the Phoenix Center and Women’s and Gender Studies Center hosts a variety of events to engage students in awareness and active prevention of interpersonal violence.

This is the second annual sticker campaign for faculty and staff. By purchasing the stickers, faculty and staff are able to wear denim on Wednesday’s throughout the month of October. The purpose of the campaign is again, for awareness, and to build monies for our survivor fund. Students who are experiencing any form of interpersonal violence and need financial assistance can access this fund. If anyone wants to donate specifically to the Phoenix Center Survivor Fund, they can do so by contacting the MSUB Foundation.

The Phoenix Center Facebook page is a resource for information and support.

The WGSC and Phoenix Center look forward to shining a light on sexual assault and domestic violence through these October events.

»» Download film events flyer

»» Download October Domestic Violence Awareness Mont Events

»» Download Sticker Promotion information