Hopefully if you are reading this, you are close to the ground, safely seated, and at low risk for heart attacks and strokes, because I have the best news since nutella French toast became an acceptable breakfast choice. This Sunday, you better scarf down your brunch, because at 3 pm, the 8 hour long Law and Order SVU marathon commences.
This, however, is not the ordinary SVU run that can be commonly found on pretty much any channel at any time of the day. This Sunday, on June 22, the USA Network teams up with Mariska Hargitay’s Foundation, Joyful Heart and the NO MORE campaign for the second “No More Excuses” marathon, to raise awareness for domestic violence and sexual assault.
In light of all the recent coverage of sexual violence, the NO MORE campaign is attempting to normalize the conversation and break the social stigma surrounding domestic violence and sexual assault. And what better way to do this than with Law and Order SVU, which has been responsible for giving many of us our very first glimpses into the murky world of sex crimes. By increasing the visibility of these crimes, SVU is fostering a much needed dialogue about sexual assault and confronting the myths and excuses that perpetuate violence and abuse, “Society continues to misplace shame and blame on survivors both men and women. That has to end,” professes Mariska Hargitay. Another major goal of this marathon is to encourage men to get involved and be part of the solution. “Engaging men is a crucial part of the movement to address and, one day, end sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse,” Hagartay explains.
During each episode viewers will be encouraged to seek out additional information and resources online, including national help hotlines to speak with trained counselors and advocates. Throughout the day, social media platforms will be used to encourage conversation and inspire greater action to stop and prevent domestic violence and sexual assault.
And the icing on top of the cake: Chris Meloni (Detective Stabler/Elliot/the missing piece in my life for the past year) is coming back from the dead to light up my TV screen from in his rightful place at the Special Victims Unit.
So all of you wanna-be Casey Novaks and Ice Ts, get ready this Sunday to bust out the tissue boxes, pop open the Pino for your SVU drinking games and remember: you have the right to remain silent everything you do can and will be used against you in a court of law.
DUN DUN. (drink once)
Pics Via broadwaywarmup and suitey
