Speak Up and Help Spread Awareness by Karly Sacco

To me, sexual assault awareness month is something that needs more attention. It is unfortunate that there has to be a month to make awareness to such awful acts that occur in the first place, but what we can do now is raise consciousness to those who want and need to know more about sexual assaults. We as human beings need to start making a big difference in the world and participate in showing our community that we can make a change. No matter if it is just writing a blog, attending sexual assault awareness events, or giving speeches at your college, work, or community gatherings. 

            Just getting the word out there about how serious this issue is will make a difference in the long run. This month to me means that people are continuing to suffer and go through struggles, but on the positive end it also means that we are creating change and are helping those who have and are suffering. I go to a small private university, where some people are completely either unaware, or just don’t seem to care about the seriousness of sexual assault awareness month.

            I want to become more involved with spreading awareness on this serious topic, and I feel like creating a safe environment at my school for those who feel it is important or have suffered from sexual assaults to come and talk and share stories would be a great first step within my university's community. I feel that my generation sometimes gets caught up in issues that are so individualistic that they forget about helping others. We need to make a change for the future generations to follow.

Prevention Through A Digital Platform by Benedictine University blogger Karly Sacco

We have been living in a world that has been taken over by the power of social media for some years now. People feel more comfortable with opening up on websites and blogs because we are hidden behind a computer screen and can be anyone we want to be. Digital platforms have become a great way for those who are afraid to speak up in person to express their feelings and stories. Social medias are taking over the way we communicate and there isn’t any way around it so we might as well start incorporating it in most things that we do. Expression via Internet should always be an opinion for those to have when going through a difficult time.

Current sexual assault prevention programs should improve their content by offering more digital platforms for their members to speak through along with in person conversations.

There are a countless numbers of social media sites that can be a part of a program to help make it easier for people to communicate.

For example, Twitter. A prevention program can tweet out encouraging statements to get people struggling through their day with a little motivation. They can tweet out a Q&A so fellow members of the program can chat on a public platform and can relate to each other’s problems without being face to face. I am not saying that this is a perfect idea, but for those that are suffering, anything is worth a try to help them even in the smallest way. A lot of people say that social media is taking away from face to face interactions and being personable with one another. To that I say, what about Skype? This program would help immensely with prevention programs. The members of a program can all get together and have a Skype session with people across the world to discuss stories, prevention ideas, and just relate to each other.

Like I said before, the world is turning into a digital one, and  just by adding a few social media sites can positively change prevention programs by connecting people all over the world.

We're Not All That Different by Benedictine University blogger Karly

It is hard for men to grasp. The way that women look at sexual assault is different from the way that men look at it, but it should not be that way. There are many ways that men can participate in the movement of feminism that is occurring today.

First off, men should educate themselves. If they do not know what the new wave of feminism means then they will not be able to help spread the movement. Feminism can mean many different things; some of those things may even have a negative feel to them. But that is only because those people who see feminism as a negative thing fail to truly understand why it is so important. Women have fought so hard to just have the same privileges that men do. So you would think that men would want to know a little bit more about the reasons behind this movement.

After men understand what the new wave of feminism means, they can get involved by supporting groups that women lead and are passionate about. Many men may feel like they cannot understand what feminism is because they are men and will never have the same view that us women do. To an extent, this is true but that does not mean they can’t try to get involved and help out the movement. One day we can see how true equality between men and women can work. An example of something that men might see differently than women is sexual assault at colleges. Because the majority of the sexual assaults that occur on campuses are men attacking women, the issue comes off as being the woman’s one. However, that is an issue in itself. Male dominance continues to play a big role in sexual assaults. Society tends to feel bad for the women that get attacked and no one ever thinks twice about blaming the man who attacked her because he was dominate in the situation and she was helpless. I am not saying that it is going to be easy to change or at least for a second open the eyes of those who cannot see the issue that lives within sexual assaults. However if men are willing to try to understand, that is already a step in the right direction.

College Preparedness: The Crucial Role of the Parent by Katiera Sordjan

Going to college brings many changes for students. Not only are they expected to succeed academically, but young men and women must also learn to balance their schoolwork, social life, and extracurricular activities, mostly without their parents' direct supervision and guidance. While this newfound freedom is largely welcomed, the adjustment to college can be challenging and lead to unexpected problems that can interfere with a student's ability to do well. As a child transitions from high school to college, it is very important for parents and guardians to have honest conversations with students about what this next phase of their academic careers will bring.  

Facilitating the transition to college starts considerably early. As a child enters his or her teen years, parents must instill a sense of responsibility in their children. Someone who has their mother or father doing all of their laundry and managing their schedules will probably find themselves in a precarious situation come freshman year. Children who take on more active roles in their household have a much stronger understanding of the adult responsibilities expected of them when they leave for school.

A big topic that needs to be tackled when preparing for college is personal safety. High school graduates who go off to schools away from home, especially in a different type of setting (i.e. someone from a small town attending college in a large city) may find maneuvering in their new environment without adult guidance to be stressful at best. Students should be highly aware of their surroundings, and parents need to stress precautions such as locking dorm rooms, keeping valuables protected, and traveling with friends, particularly at night. A person who is not constantly mindful of those around them are much easier to take advantage of by strangers or even classmates. 

One of the key components of safety has to do with interactions with other students. Many new college enrollees will find themselves in situations such as large parties for the first time, bereft of the constant watchful eye of their parents. Mothers and fathers must have these conversations in such a way that will be most helpful to their child. When discussing matters such as sex and drugs, an abstinent-only policy will not work. It will only leave a student confused on how to handle a situation when faced with it. Parents should remember when they were in their children's shoes. Their son or daughter is no longer a young kid and will encounter very adult scenarios when away at school. Talking to students openly about sex entails conversations about protection and consent, as well as handling unwanted advances. Many girls for example, will go off to college and be sexually harassed and/or assaulted, but not consider these crimes as anything more serious than general discomfort, and may even blame themselves for the attack. If this conversation is not easy, a parent could enlist the help of a teacher or counselor. But the small amount of awkwardness between adult and child is minuscule when compared to the potential consequences. In the same notion, kids should be aware of drugs, particularly alcohol. Most students will come across substance use on their campuses, many for the first time, and will need to be prepared. Many college freshmen end up hospitalized during their first weeks of school because they took their new liberties a little too far, and were not well informed on the outcomes of their actions. There will be those students who never use drugs or drink. But instead of the simple "drugs are bad and don't do them" speech, parents must make sure their children understand what to do in college situations regarding substance use. For example, avoiding pre-mixed drinks in favor of closed bottles or cans at parties is important. Spiking drinks or making them stronger than the drinker can handle often leads to dangerous situations such as overdose and rape. With that being said, the connection between sex and drugs is important to understand. A high person cannot legally give consent to sexual activity, and drinking and/or using drugs without the supervision of trusted friends can lead to a very unsafe environment.

While it often brings back memories of uncomfortable middle school lectures, parents should make sure their children understand peer pressure. It will play a much greater role in college than ever before, and more often than not parents will not be around to check these external influences. Peer pressure goes even beyond drinking and sex, and can be as seemingly benign as skipping a homework assignment to go out with friends. While it may seem tempting in the moment, these instances of avoiding work can quickly lead to falling far behind in class. 

Even when a student goes off to college and begins their undergraduate studies, one of the most important things a parent can do is keep an open line of communication with their kids. They will naturally want their space from Mom and Dad and not feel constantly bothered by calls and messages, but in the long run will appreciate having their parents' support. Too often are college students afraid of bringing up new problems and concerns with their parents for fear of harsh judgement or ostracism, and loved ones will often find out too late when there is a serious issue. A parent should remain authoritative, but stress that they are there to support their child in whatever way they can.   

Conversations such as these are loaded, and not easy, but are crucial in helping make college the best experience that it can be for a young adult. Growing up can be difficult and stressful enough, and to remain a stellar student while juggling all of life's ups and downs can seem almost impossible. But a parent, since infancy, is there to guide and nurture us to become successful, happy adults. Keeping college students healthy and safe begins before they even step foot on campus, and a strong support system from the start of freshman year will ensure they not only complete their degree, but leave college with a wealth of good experiences. 

Breaking the Silence: Combatting Sexual Assault in Greek Organizations by Katiera Sordjan

It is often said that people have great strength in numbers. Greek organizations are a crucial part of the college years for many students, and can be a major source of school tradition and pride. They have deep historical roots across the country. However, they also are the source of many controversies and issues on college campuses, mainly due to the sexual violence that surrounds Greek culture. Mixers and parties, usually supplied with alcohol, can be a dangerous breeding ground for sexual misconduct. Requiring new members to be subjected to sexual assault or forced to violate others can be common and unspoken parts of brotherhood and sisterhood. To prevent future incidents and help raise awareness in the school community, multiple groups must come together to ensure a safe social environment for students.

One person’s courage to speak out against the illicit activities of a frat or sorority could have very serious implications for the future of that group. It is in the best interest of these organizations to be aware of their presence on campus, and ensure the well-being of both their own members as well as guests of their houses and parties. Students who feel comfortable and at home in their fraternities or sororities will in turn continue to promote a lively social atmosphere that attracts new, like-minded students. In addition, college and universities must take an active, no-nonsense policy towards their Greek organizations. Students in fraternities and sororities are much more likely to be perpetrators or victims of sexual assault when compared with non-Greek students. Ignoring issues of this nature is at worst morally reprehensible and at best bad business.

To start, male fraternities should discontinue the policies of having female quotas when hosting events or parties. Requiring members to bring groups of women in, as well as discounting entry fees for female students, contributes to an unsafe environment where students can fall victim to sexual violence, particularly under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Any event suspected of having gender ratios should be shut down immediately. Fraternities in these scenarios can be guilty of pressuring members to target female guests, or supplying women with separate batches of alcohol, which may be prepared much stronger or spiked with other drugs. Combined with the hyper-masculine environment of some fraternities, female students can be easily preyed upon. 

Fraternities and sororities should eliminate any type of ritual or initiation that mandates sexual or physical violence. There are many ways to foster bonding and community, as well as have fun introducing new members to the group, besides fear, intimidation, and assault. The group attitudes arising from these Greek traditions can lead to homophobic and sexually violent tendencies. A Greek association that honestly believes they should torture their new members into the community is not one that students should want to be a part of. 

Co-ed fraternities can be a good place to start shifting Greek mindsets. Allowing women to be a part of my Pi Lambda Phi chapter at UPenn has allowed for a very peaceful coexistence of male and female students. Members are very active in groups that combat sexual assault on campus, and seek to make the fraternity house a safe space regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender, or background. Harassment during pledge and by party guests towards brothers or other visitors to the house is strictly prohibited. Anyone who feels uncomfortable is encouraged to talk to a male or female brother in the house who can address their concerns. Having spaces where men and women can socialize together may help to diffuse the sexually charged nature of same-sex frats and sororities. 

Other student groups can also play a big role in helping to change social and Greek life. LGBT+ and women’s groups on campus can continue to support students by giving space to the unique needs of students of varying gender identities and sexual orientations. Sexual assault prevention groups, such as the male group One In Four, could partner with fraternities and sororities to host honest, open dialogue about feeling safe while attending Greek parties or pledging. Alcohol and drug education is also very important here. Hearing a student's perspective and experiences would reach a much larger audience than standard school lectures, and help reduce the number of sexual crimes. Student groups must stress the importance of listening to one’s self. If a situation feels dangerous, threatening, or uncomfortable, a student should make every attempt to speak up or leave the event or activity, regardless of the perceived social repercussions. If a student is forced to continue doing anything they do not consent to, the matter should be reported to the proper student affairs faculty. Having student-run workshops and collaborative efforts between organizations will help people feel informed and comfortable regarding the Greek social scene. 

Colleges and universities must enact severe punitive measures and repercussions for Greek organizations that violate students’ health and safety. Going to college means largely being left to yourself and becoming an adult without the constant supervision of teachers and parents. However, schools cannot knowingly turn a blind eye to dangerous and even life-threatening activities happening on or around their campuses. Of course, all students want a place that allows them to socialize and party without the interference of administration. But faculty should be accessible for students who have concerns and inquiries about Greek life, and schools should move to make their organizations a little more transparent. Fraternities and sororities who violate any student should immediately be in danger of losing their chapter. Slaps on the wrist do not help in scenarios where students' lives are at risk. 

Every person coming of age wants to feel like they belong. Especially when attending a larger university or a school a good distance from home, students value having groups they genuinely feel a part of. Greek societies can help fulfill this need, but it should not be at the expense of a student's sexual and physical security. The common attitudes of Greek culture need to change. Brotherhood and sisterhood can still be an exciting and special part of college life without causing harm, and students should not have to suffer in silence because assault is perceived as normal. Sexual assault is never, under any circumstances, justifiable. When we think of how widespread hazing and borderline Stockholm syndrome is in these organizations, it is clear that these changes will not happen overnight. But taking a critical look at Greek life is a crucial part of combatting sexual assault in colleges. Students must learn to respect themselves and each other, and joining together, with the oversight of their schools, will help make socializing something to enjoy instead of fear. 

The Importance of Women's History Month by Katiera Sordjan

     

     Unfortunately, even with the dedication of entire sequential months to a celebration of the achievements of African-Americans and women, the imperativeness of these recognitions is still greatly underestimated. We are halfway through March, yet I have heard little mention of Women's History Month in my neighborhood and local schools. We live in a society that still poorly represents women in its culture, and teaches its girls to feel unsafe and insecure merely because of their gender. Girls deserve to be educated about their histories, so they can feel confident and empowered by female role models. 

     Both men and women still scoff and roll their eyes at feminist movements and celebrations like Women's History Month. They accuse women of wanting to be the same as men (often using the Freudian term penis envy) or have more power than them. But sexism is still alive and well; acquiring the right to vote and hold offices does not mean that women are treated equally and fairly, which is all feminism really asks for. In the words of Winston Churchill, history is written by the victors. A dominating patriarchal society hurts both men and women by confining them to rigid roles, and leaves little room for those who lie outside of the traditional gender binary. 

     Not only have women been barred from important fields historically, but today many still assume that contributions to society are made mostly by men due to some inherent weakness in women. Sandi Toksgiv, a European writer and producer, reflected on an anthropology course she took while studying at Cambridge. Her female professor noted that a bone etched with 28 markings is considered evidence of man's first creation of a calendar. However, only a woman would find significance in marking 28 days, as it represents the average length of the menstrual cycle. Toksgiv wondered how many other achievements of women she had overlooked in her life. This is a question we should be asking ourselves as well. 

     It took time for women to be able to be an active and recognized part of politics, art, and science. Women's History Month recognizes women like Rosalind Franklin, whose crucial role in the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA was overlooked in favor of crediting scientists Watson and Crick. It praises women like Rosa Parks, who refused to tolerate the prejudices towards men and women of color. It rallies behind contemporary women like Wendy Davis, who stood in front of a largely male senate for 11 hours to block a bill that would restrict Texan women's reproductive rights. This is not a demand for greater space in the history books than men, but to rewrite the history that has been diminished and concealed, and to tell the stories that are constantly being written by women all over the world every day. 

     It is no surprise that in a culture that encourages female submission and censorship, as well as male aggression and authority, women can be taken advantage of, abused, and will rarely come forward. This is important to think about as we continue our discussion of the issues of sexual assault on college campuses. When a woman is taught that her body is public property, and that her voice is not always worthy of being heard or trusted, we perpetuate a rape culture that causes many women to suffer in silence. 

     The story of our country is one of overcoming adversity and fighting for the freedoms we deserve as citizens. We have a come a long way, but are still fighting to be seen as equals regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or background. We honor the history of women to remember their important role in shaping countries across the globe, and to remind our children to continue to fight for equality and overcome the obstacles of prejudice to fulfill their goals and dreams. 

"Awareness is Key" by blogger Allisyn Ruttle from Pitzer College

Something happened on my campus this semester. Something created a buzz that’s still sending us into a frame of mind never before seen.

We all received our first sexual assault notification email from administration a few months back. Everyone talked about it. It gave no explicit detail, just simply when and where and guidelines for how to prevent it in the future. We were all surprised. Why hadn’t we been notified of these situations before? Why now?

The emails kept coming. Notifications of sexual violence came flooding into my inbox. Now, we see at least 1 per weekend, if not 2-3.

Students became passionately outraged, posing various, impulsive questions:

“Why are there so many sexual assaults happening on campus now?”

“Who is responsible? Students? People in the community?”

“What about our campus culture has changed to invite such behavior on such a regular basis?”

Here is the thing, though. It took me just as long as everyone else to see through my own concern to reach the harsh truth. These emails don’t indicate a sudden burst of sexually violent activity. Cases have been that frequent all along, and it used to be so easy to blind ourselves from the truth. Now that administration is making all of us aware, we can’t help but become actively concerned. We can’t help but stand up and fight.

The results of the awareness-spreading emails, as sad as they are to read, have been astonishing. Three of the five Claremont Colleges now have legitimate advocate groups in support of survivors, and they all meet more often than they ever have before. Initiatives like the growing “Yes Means Yes” campaign are making way, and the general student body is excited to engage in the support of survivors and prevention of sexual violence on the campus they call home.

Survivors themselves have also been affected by the rise of awareness. Discussions and support groups have reached a pinnacle in attendance. They feel more proactive with reporting their cases, because they know the powers that be are taking some sort of initiative to do something about it, even if it is just a simple email with no detail.  For the first time, something is being done to encourage survivors to move forward, and I could not be more proud of my campus.

Consent: Clearing Up the Grey by Katiera Sordjan

     One of the most important things we can do to combat sexual assault on college campuses is to educate students on the importance of consent. This is crucial regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or the nature of the relationship between the individuals. Understanding what consent is, giving and receiving it throughout sex is crucial to ensuring that students are safe and respected.

     Our concept of rape and sexual assault is often very concrete and stereotypical; a person is physically overpowered or otherwise forced into intercourse or other sexual acts by someone else. However, many times this is not the case, and leaves victims feeling violated but not sure that they would describe the encounter as assault. These 'grey areas' are very problematic in confronting the issue of sexual assault and even more difficult to process legally.

     Consenting to sexual activity is more than just a person saying yes before sex begins. A couple or group should communicate both before and during sex about their sexual desires and wants. Consent means that a person willingly agrees to have sex. They may consent to some sexual activities and not others. Talking with each other ensures everyone is comfortable and enjoying being intimate.

     It is important to remember that not saying 'no' doesn't automatically mean a yes to any sexual activity. Pressuring or coercing someone to have sex is sexual assault. A person has the right to change their mind at any time during sex about what they want to do with their partners. If a person is intoxicated they cannot consent. Taking advantage of someone under the influence is rape.

     When having sex you should never make any assumptions, insinuations, or be vague with your partner. Even if you are in a serious relationship with your partner or have had consensual sex with them before, consent is still needed from both of you every time you have sex. Do not assume that doing one activity is permission for another. Never make inferences about someone's desire to have sex based on factors such as their gender, sexual orientation, clothing, or past sexual history. Similarly, you cannot use your own sexual and personal identity as a substitute for consent. None of these things are consent; a clear and enthusiastic 'yes' is.

     Talking about sex may seem awkward and interruptive, ruining the mood of being intimate. But having conversation before sex will make things run much smoother and be clear for everyone. During sex, partners should simply check for feedback from each other. Pay attention to words and body language, and incorporate it into your sex play by telling them what you would like to do with them next. If your partner seems hesitant it is important to ask them if it is okay to continue, plainly and nonagressively. Likewise, your partner should be paying attention to you to make sure you are engaged and comfortable during any sexual activities you do together. Using 'safe words' can be helpful in BDSM sex and roleplays. If either person is hesitant or does not continue giving consent it is important to stop having sex and talk about what each of you wants to do. Good lovers listen to their partners and are in tune with their needs. 

     Sex should be fun, and an exciting way to be intimate with someone. It is a significant and memorable part of college life for many students. It should be free of pressure, discomfort, and constraining societal expectations. Consensual sex is not about power, but giving and receiving pleasure. Everyone should be able to explore their sexuality with others in a way that is enjoyable for them, without being harmed or taken advantage of. 

Football and Assault: How Male Athletic Entitlement Contributes to Rape Culture by Katiera Sordjan

     People have long marveled at the physical prowess and potential of the human body. 

Athleticism has played a powerful role in society. On college campuses, sports are also heavily ingrained. Many students are able to receive scholarships to go to college because of their hard work and athletic talents exhibited in high school. In turn, these schools can raise funds through their sports events. Most notable are the football teams, which attract many students, both as spectators and participants. The sport represents what many Americans feel to be one of the great pastimes of the country. A look at the enormous revenue generated during Super Bowl weekend can attest to that.

     I recall somewhat bitterly the affairs of my high school football team. At pep rallies, other teams were given brief recognition, while each football player got an individual mini-biography. Lawnmowers and landscapers painstakingly poured over the football field every day, while students indoors didn't even have proper desks or textbooks at times.

Even in college, I must remember that the distinguished title of Ivy League was not originally used to describe my school’s academics, but its elite sports status. 

     This special treatment can lead these athletes (who are virtually all male, in the case of football) to feel a sense of entitlement over their peers. Football is also a contact sport, and one could argue that players are encouraged to be combative and aggressive, as well as pressured by their coaches, peers, and families to succeed. It should come as no surprise that this behavior extends outside the field.

     I knew a few players who consistently expected to be allowed to bend the rules. They refused to even attempt homework on days when they had games, and demanded their teachers move test and homework dates or let them skip the work altogether. They were aware of the prestigious place they held in our high school, which was often valued more than academic success itself, and used it to their advantage.

     The Steubenville rape case is a prime example of the learned sense of entitlement of male athletes, as well as the sympathy they receive from others. The football players had no issue with being aggressors and taking what they wanted from an incapacitated girl. Respectable media outlets such as CNN lamented over the fact that Mays and Richmond had ruined their shot at an athletic career, instead of illustrating them as what they are: rapists. The victim was not only repeatedly assaulted, but was publicly humiliated and shamed instead of being defended. Why does the presence of alcohol make the victim blameworthy for the crime, but the athletic status of her attackers is an excuse?

     Malcolm Gladwell, The New Yorker writer and bestselling author, shocked Penn students when he gave a speech at our school suggesting football be eliminated completely. He claimed that the school puts students at risk for a dangerous condition known as CTE, which can lead to depression and suicidality from repeated traumatic brain injury, merely for the sake of entertainment and financial gain. Many, especially the football players, were offended by this notion. 

     Many Americans are obsessed with their sports, and are willing to put their children at risk for the sake of fame and money. Parents push their kids into athletics at a very young age in the hopes that they will be successful, but very few will go pro. Even if we are unwilling to give up our more dangerous sports, like football, we must not teach the young people who play them that their actions are without consequence. 

    Individualism has a cost; it leads us to glorify students like Trent Mays and Ma’lik Richmond for their physical control and simultaneously shun their victim for lacking it. While the boys received sympathy for being young athletic stars who simply did not know any better (“boys will be boys”), the similarly young girl was expected to be responsible. Underage drinking is illegal, but it does not excuse a violent crime. Of course, many athletes and men are good students and upstanding members of society. But teaching and reinforcing hyper-masculinity and blamelessness contributes to a victim-blaming rape culture that robs survivors of their dignity well after their attack.