This week, scattered around the Oakland University residence halls and academic buildings, signs requesting male models caused people to stop and take interest.

The signs, which read, “MALE MODELS WANTED!!” included a description of a man who is fearless, smart, righteous, courageous and strong, qualities not typically considered a requirement for modeling.

The “models” these signs were referring to were role models, specifically male role models, looking to end men’s violence against women.

Simon Keleel, the Gender and Sexuality Center, Student Congress and a handful of other campus organizations kicked off the White Ribbon Campaign Monday at OU. The campaign asks students to join together to “white out” violent acts committed by men against women and to raise awareness of gender stereotypes and promote all-around respect.

The White Ribbon Campaign is the world’s largest effort of men working to end violent acts against women, and although it is typically a male-specific effort, OU sponsors of the event are looking to get everyone involved.

“We wear the ribbon as a personal pledge never to commit, condone, or remain silent against violence against women,” said Keleel, who has been involved in the White Ribbon Campaign since his junior year of high school. “Women can wear the ribbon to show support that men have a role and responsibility to end violence against women.”

Senior Kayla Jones has been sporting the white ribbon all week in support of the campaign.

“It’s sad how prevalent violence is and I am proud of the individuals who are wearing white ribbons and learning simple ways to make a difference,” Jones said.

In addition to the campaign’s week-long presence in the OC, where students can pledge their commitment and sign the White OUt Week banner and receive a ribbon, there will also be a variety of on-campus opportunities for involvement.

All week, the Residence Hall Association will be holding a penny war dividing all proceeds between Haven in Oakland County and Turning Point in Macomb County, organizations offer shelter and an assortment of other resources to women in need.

Wednesday night, Kaleel will be holding “Pink and Blue,” a presentation about gender stereotypes and gender communications from 8-9 p.m. in the Hamlin Lounge, located in Hamlin Hall. Thursday night, events continue with a 7:30 p.m. outdoor candlelight ceremony between the OC and the bridge to Vandenberg.

“The vigil is to honor the victims of domestic violence, as well as other types of violence … most men will never commit acts of violence, but when men do and we remain silent about it, we’re letting that continue,” Kaleel said.

Melissa Pope, coordinator of the Gender and Sexuality Center, believes that events like White OUt Week are key in the struggle to end violent acts against women.

“In mainstream society it’s not always men that hurt women. For men to initiate programs that say not only am I not going to engage in violence against women, but I am going to work towards the end of violence against women period, is not only important, but also comforting and awe-inspiring,” Pope said.

For the Friday finale of White OUt week, Kaleel and his supporters are asking all students to wear white in support of the campaign.

The take-home message, according to Kaleel, is that “if you ever see violence against women, or men for that matter, it is important to speak up. Sitting back and letting it happen only furthers the problem.”

Those looking to get involved in the White Ribbon Campaign are encouraged to visit the campaign’s website at www.whiteribbon.ca.

Victims of violence on campus are encouraged to report incidents to OUPD, as well as to seek help through Graham Health Center.