TEMPE, Ariz. - At any given minute, experts say one in five college students experiences some kind of dating violence. So advocates at ASU are setting up a massive campaign to help prevent dangerous relationships and encourage positive ones instead.
The Red Flag Campaign is responsible for dozens of flags on Hayden Lawn. It's all to raise awareness about dating violence and stalking in college and beyond.
The people behind this movement want to encourage friends and others on campus to speak up when they see warning signs. They're also demonstrating healthy relationships.
Advocates want college students to know the difference between positive and negative relationships, and even gray zones where the damaging behaviors can start. ASU students behind the movement say the early warning signs can be hard to notice on your own, especially if someone has become isolated in a dangerous relationship.
Julie Alvarez, an ASU Junior, says the best way to help is to be supportive of the situation, so the person in trouble can get help.
"It's important to have friends that are aware of what these signs are so they can help you out, having an objective you outside of the situation," Alvarez said.
ASU students also emphasize that not every relationship is bad. There are healthy ones too with open communication and support for each other. If you need help, or if you know someone who needs help, there is a victim's advocate on ASU campus who can help. For more resources, click here.