The numbers are troubling: one in three college women say they have been in an abusive dating relationship, according to a 2011 college dating violence and abuse poll.
Part of the problem is that men don't step up to help end domestic violence, according to educator, activist, and author Tony Porter.
Porter spoke October 11 at the Alfonso Elder Student Union. His talk was sponsored by the N.C. Central University Women's Center.
"Most men are good men and won't perpetrate," said Porter. "The challenge is to stand up."
Porter is co-founder of A Call To Men: The National Association of Men and Women Committed to Ending Violence Against Women.
The organization addresses domestic and sexual violence prevention, and promotes healthy manhood.
According to the college dating poll, 58 percent of college students say they don't know how to help someone who is a victim of dating abuse. The poll was conducted by Love Is Not Abuse, an organization founded by clothing designer Liz Claiborne.
Porter said men aren't taught to stand up when they see domestic violence occurring.
"Even if they know about it they don't do anything to stop it," he said.
April Jenkins, sexual assault and domestic violence coordinator for NCCU's Women's Center, said the event was a kick- off for domestic violence month and an opportunity to discuss domestic violence in the African American community.
Male students interested in helping with domestic violence and sexual assault prevention can stop by The Women's Center for information about the center's Men Creating Change program.
Men Creating Change aims to reduce violence against women by all forms of oppression, including racism and homophobia.
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