The Observer, January 26, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 14
Sexual assault not a laughing matter
Letter to the Editor
To the Editor:
"LOL!! :)" was found written next to the "About Rape?" section of a torn sexual assault education poster in one of the men's restrooms in Thwing Center this week.
"Laugh out loud" about what? Rape is far from a laughing matter and has likely affected someone you know. Nearly one in four college-aged women will be raped during her college years, according to the National Institute of Justice, and one in six men will experience a sexual assault in his lifetime. Sexual assault is everyone's issue.
What is sexual assault? It's any unwanted sexual act against your will and without your consent.
What is consent? This is an affirmative decision – indicated clearly by words or actions – to engage in mutually acceptable sex. Nobody can give consent if they are drunk or high. And, nobody can give consent if they are frightened, physically or psychologically pressured or forced, intimidated, unconscious, mentally or physically impaired, beaten, threatened, isolated, or confined.
Where can I go to…
1.) Report and/or Get Support?
Case Police and Protective Services (216) 368-3333
Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (216) 619-6192
Flora Stone Mather Center for Women (216) 368-0985
University Counseling Services (216) 368-5872
University Health Services (216) 368-2450
University Office of Student Affairs (216) 368-2020
Housing, Residence Life, and Greek Life Staff (216) 368-3780
2.) Learn how to help a survivor?
If someone tells you they were sexually assaulted, the most important support you can provide is to believe them and listen. Reassure them that they are not alone and it is not their fault. No one asks nor deserves to be sexually assaulted.
For more information about seeking medical attention after an assault, check out the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center's web site at: http://www.clevelandrapecrisis.org/. Stay tuned for the upcoming launch of Case's "Sexual Conduct at Case" web site.
Contact Katie Hanna, the Women's Health Advocate at the Flora Stone Mather Center for Women, to request a program or to schedule an individual appointment: it's a safe, confidential space to just talk.
3.) Take Action?
Challenge sexist behaviors and jokes. Communicate with your partner about your limits. If you're not sure, ask! Get involved on campus by volunteering at the Flora Stone Mather Center for Women's Sexual Misconduct Student Taskforce or be part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April by contacting Jacqueline Greene at jacqueline.greene@case.edu.
Katie Hanna
Women's Health Advocate
Flora Stone Mather Center for Women
