The WTAMU Black Women’s Association (BWA) is giving out free ribbons to raise awareness of cancer as well as in support of the upcoming Relay for Life event. They passed out ribbons of various colors in the JBK on March 19 and 21. They will continue to pass them out on the 26, 28 and April 2 and 4.

They said it is important to not focus on just one type of cancer awareness and instead put an emphasis on all of them.

“We’re just trying to raise awareness and let [everyone on] campus know that the Black Women’s Association is doing something to benefit this cause,” BWA President Nichelle Dawkins said.Dawkins said, though she does not know anyone diagnosed with cancer, she realizes the future uncertainty. She points out one can never know when a friend or family member could be affected by cancer.

“I don’t just want to be for the cause then, I want to be for the cause now,” Dawkins said.

For WT student Tiffany Starghill, cancer is a serious problem that runs in her family. She believes that raising cancer awareness is necessary and that people get real insight into what it does to a person’s life.

“People get a view into it [cancer] and know what it is,” she said.

Similarly, WT student Raleisha Martin said it is important to raise awareness about cancer.

“It helps show how many people it really affects,” she said.

The Black Women’s Association has registered a team for Canyon’s Relay for Life and are collecting donations. As the BWA president, Dawkins wants to push the organization to be involved and give back.

Relay for Life of Canyon, TX will be held on April 20 at 7 p.m. at the WT Buffalo Sports Complex.