MSU Students United helped to organize the march as part of the nationwide Day of Action, inspired by Emma Sulkowicz, a Columbia University student who is carrying her mattress around campus as long her rapist is still allowed to attend the university.

One of the groups’ goals is to see their views reflected when MSU plans to re-write its sexual assault policy in the coming year. Some of the methods promoted include making the Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Prevention Program training required for all students every year, in addition to having all MSU affiliated fraternities, sororities, and cooperative houses having a sign with the comprehensive definition of consent visible in common areas.

Representatives from student organizations like the MSU Women’s Council, Students for Choice and the Black Student Alliance gathered outside Fairchild Auditorium on Farm Lane earlier in the day to pass out condoms and information resources about sexual assault prevention on campus.

Just after 3 p.m., students gathered and lifted mattresses, pillows and banners to “carry the weight together.”

A group of about 30 students marched to the Administration Building where several students shared their experiences with sexual assault in the past and advocated for the support of supporters on MSU’s campus.

The event encouraged MSU students to change the culture on campus from one of violence and victim-blaming to empower and support survivors with a culture of mutual respect and sexual consent.

MSU is one of more than 30 universities currently under federal investigation for its handling of complaints of sexual harassment and assault.

“A student-led event like this is key to show that we care about the end of rape culture,” MSU Students United member Rachel Weber said. “We are showing that students want a change.”

Students carried banners demanding “End Rape Culture” and chanted things like “2-4-6-8, stop the rape at Michigan State,” as they walked up Farm Lane.

At the Administration Building, some marchers shared personal stories regarding rape and sexual assault. Members also promoted sexual assault information groups like the Every Two Minutes troupe and the Sexual Assault Crisis Intervention team.

“We need to redefine consent,” Elle Abeles-Allison,  a MSU Students United member, said to the protestors. “Whether it’s a sexual act or a hug from a friend.”

The event concluded with a large group hug and the crowd convened, leaving three signed mattresses on the stairs of the building.