Re: “University refused to take rape seriously” Saturday, October 19, 2013.
Re: “University refused to take rape seriously” Saturday, October 19, 2013.
October 26, 2013 at 9:24am
I wrote this on October 22 and sent it into the Chronicle Journal but I'm not sure if it made the deadline etc.
Re: “University refused to take rape seriously” Saturday, October 19, 2013.
When I read it, I felt frustrated and disheartened about the lack of compassion expressed by the student. By going to the chair, that was a step taken by the student to reclaim control to move on from the experience and focus on finishing her studies. The student expressed needs to the chair, Human Resources, and the Ombudsman. By sharing this experience, the author demonstrates courage. The piece brought awareness to me on so many levels.
I reflect on how rape and violence is difficult to talk about. Why does media so often talk of the victim as opposed to the perpetrator? Where are questions on the root cause of violence and rape? I discussed with my colleague some of the reasons why a person would not want to file a formal complaint. Examples: the social stigma and backlash and the emotional stress and impact to move on from the experience.
I began a role at Lakehead University Student Union last month. Reading the author’s experience reminds me that each student-centre is a safe-space for all students to access services, peer support, and our work to advocate and respond to the needs of students just as all offices at Lakehead University aim to. The University President responded and created the Task Force. This student voice informs my work in a way that a fact sheet on sexual assault, violence, and rape can’t. I have work to do.
Human Resources outlines a Harassment and Discrimination Policy and a Code of Student Behaviour. What are the communication gaps? How can each person boldly challenge behaviour that hurts and demeans another and how do we be supportive?
I’ve been organizing Take Back The Night, an annual rally, protest and movement that raises awareness about the issue of violence against women. Let ours be a forum for ongoing discussion this Thursday, October 24, 2013 at 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM at St. Paul’s United Church (349 Waverley St.).