DANBURY, CONN. — A program that raises awareness of senseless violence on college campuses in the wake of the Virginia Tech University shooting is coming to Western Connecticut State University.

“Operation Jungle Red” (OJR) was created three years ago at Miami University in Ohio by students in a men’s health course. The goal of OJR is to start conversations about the acts of violence — including sexual assault, social media violence, domestic violence and campus violence — committed by men. Another goal is to raise awareness of how men are socialized and to focus on the impact of that socialization on society. It also serves to remember the victims of violent acts.

OJR events will take place at WCSU throughout the month of October – Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Students and faculty who want to participate will take the pledge against violence. In doing so, they will receive a free T-shirt or wristband. They also will paint their pinky fingernail “jungle red” and will be encouraged to join an informal discussion on violence. A specific topic will be presented each week.

From 12:30 to 3 p.m., on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2011, a sexual assault discussion will take place at the Midtown Student Center courtyard, on the university’s Midtown campus, 181 White St. Danbury.

From 12:30 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, a discussion on social media violence will be held in the Westside Campus Center foyer on the university’s Westside campus, 43 Lake Ave. Extension, Danbury.

From 3 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2011, a domestic violence discussion will take place in the Westside Campus Center foyer on the university’s Westside campus.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011, a campus violence discussion will be held in the Midtown Student Center courtyard on the university’s Midtown campus.

After each discussion, leaders of the OJR committee will walk around campus looking for participants wearing either the OJR T-shirt or wristband. Students who have taken the pledge will be asked to share what they learned during the discussion and will receive a prize.

For more information, call (203) 837-8486.

Western Connecticut State University offers outstanding faculty in a range of quality academic programs. Our diverse university community provides students an enriching and supportive environment that takes advantage of the unique cultural offerings of Western Connecticut and New York. Our vision: To be an affordable public university with the characteristics of New England’s best small private universities.