The Observer, April 28, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 26
Free Speech Zone: Orientation staff supports Sex Signals program
I am an executive board member for the summer orientation staff and I must say that I was truly disappointed and upset by the letter in Issue 24 that was entitled "Elimination of sex signals session dangerous." Not only was this student misinformed, but also failed to contact any member of the orientation office before writing these erroneous comments and random facts about our program. The "information" published in this article was far from the truth and I want to set the record straight with the actual facts.
Orientation loves the program Sex Signals and we were thrilled to have it as a part of our program last year. We agree that this program addresses very important issues and would love to include it in our program again. We 150 percent agree that sexual aggression and date rape are very genuine problems on any college campus, including ours. The comment that "Sex Signals and the opportunity to address these important issues with students… is not a priority for those planning summer orientation" is not only absolutely ridiculous but also a complete lie! In the article the author also claimed that "the official argument against utilizing a program such as Sex Signals is simply financial problems." I personally would like to know which member of our office gave you this official statement. The answer is none of them, because that is not our position on this issue at all. And claiming that orientation believes that sexual assault on this campus is not a problem is completely unmerited and false.
It is indeed true that the specific performing group used is a huge cost to our office, however, there are hundreds of programs and entertainers who put on similar programs at schools across the country addressing this same issue; Sex Signals is not the only program that talks about this topic. Based on budget cuts, we were simply exploring all of our options and looking for groups who could bring the same quality, fun, and effectiveness, but at a lower cost.
Based on meetings with Share the Vision and a variety of sub-groups, many students and staff members felt a multi-issue show would address a wide range of topics and issues new students would encounter. It has always been the intention to include substance abuse, sexual abuse,
consent, and a variety of issues addressed in Sex Signals. Orientation was never planning to completely eliminate these social education program topics. We feel that there are a lot of important issues which should be addressed and presented to our new community members as they enter Case.However, we also have to be realistic about time and funding. Orientation Summer Sessions are packed from 7:30 a.m. until the very late in the evening, and we have to include advising time, placement exams, scheduling, and numerous other programs as well.
In addition, if anyone is adamant about keeping the exact program of Sex Signals. the event could be co-sponsored to eliminate any budgetary worries. I thank the author of the article for their concern because we, too, feel that these issues are very important, yet I am disappointed that our office was never contacted before taking such drastic measures with false information.
