William Kelly III.
Associate Editor

At Jackson State University, the campus bleeds blue and white year-round, except during the month of October.

During this month the campus exudes hot pink in dedication of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast Cancer Awareness month is an annual event in which citizens around the world host events ranging from forums to run/walks, to inform and remind people of the deadly disease.

According to www.aabcainc.org/facts-to-know/ breast cancer is the leading cause of death in African-American women. Men are not immune to breast cancer, the symptoms that pertain to women also affect males.

Along with the bright pink fountains in front of the H.T. Sampson Library,  clubs and organizations on campus, as well as student body leaders, have hosted a plethora of events in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Kicking off the month was the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., who hosted a Breast Cancer Awareness hotspot and bra drive on Oct. 2 during Zeta Week.

During this hotspot, pink balloons were released in dedication to those who have been affected and who are currently affected by breast cancer. Along with Zeta Phi Beta, members of Essence of a Lady Tiger were also in attendance releasing their own pink balloons and taking photos of students with a breast cancer theme Instagram cut-out.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. collaborated with Miss Freshman Jori Hart for her breast cancer awareness fashion show, Rip it Pink, on Oct. 8. The fashion show consisted of many scenes displaying seasonal fashion, school spirit, and more while informing the audience of various breast cancer facts during intermissions.

Many students are unaware of the breast cancer survivors who have roamed JSU and those who are currently affected.

Flimeka Williams, a breast cancer survivor and JSU Class of 1990 Alumnus, is one of the many people in the JSU family who has been personally affected by breast cancer.

“As a breast cancer survivor, I fight every day for my family and loved ones. It is my hope that all women are vigilant in performing breast exams and going to the doctor if they have any signs or symptoms,” said Williams. “Breast cancer awareness events are important because they encourage all of us to be supportive of those who are battling this deadly disease. As a cancer survivor, I appreciate all the support.”

The Sophomore Class Council and Royal Court has also been active in supporting breast cancer and bringing awareness. Jesslyn Course, Miss Sophomore, invited social media to participate in her breast cancer awareness photo challenge from Oct. 5 through Oct. 10.

During this week, participants were asked to post pictures in their pink lipstick, breast cancer paraphernalia, and also attend her breast cancer awareness forum on Oct. 9.

The Sophomore Class Council hosted a color run on Oct. 10, in which participants ran around a short distance on the campus and could attend a paint party immediately after.

As the month of October continues, please remember to support those affected by breast cancer and give to the cause.