Obama: Sexual violence has to stop

President Obama late Sunday used a message broadcast during the Grammy Awards to promote a campaign to end sexual assault.

{mosads}“Tonight we celebrate artists whose music and message helps shape our culture,” Obama said. “Together, we can change our culture for the better by ending violence against women and girls.”

Obama cited statistics that nearly 1 in 5 women in the U.S. has been a victim of rape or attempted rape. More than 1 in 4 women has experienced some form of domestic violence, he added.

“It’s not OK. It has to stop,” the president said.

Obama called on viewers to join a campaign to stop sexual violence at itsonus.org. He challenged artists to encourage their fans to take a pledge at the web site as well

“Artists have the unique power to change minds and attitudes — to get us thinking and talking about what matters,” Obama said. “All of us, in our own lives, have the power to set an example.”

“It’s on us, all of us, to create a culture where violence is not tolerated, where survivors are supported and where all our young people, men and women, can go as far as their talents and their dreams will take them,” he added.