Sexual assault happens on DePauw's campus. It is rarely talked about or discussed openly, but we think it is time to begin conversations about it.
We have witnessed various groups on campus bringing these issues to the forefront of their agendas, but it is time for campus to unite on this issue.
The issue of sexual assault affects each and every student here. Within the past year a total of nine sexual assault cases was reported on DePauw's campus. The sad truth is that there were most likely more than nine cases. According to a study by the Bureau of Justice, around 60 percent of sexual assault cases go unreported. Nationally one in four women ages 18-25 experiences some sort of sexual assault, according to the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA).
Statistically, it has been shown that most cases of sexual assault happen between peers.
One of the most common misconceptions about sexual misconduct is that it refers solely to rape. The definition includes non-consensual sexual contact, relationship violence, sexual battery, rape, deviant sexual conduct, sexual exploitation, stalking and sexual harassment.
There are many circumstances where preventative measures could be taken to stop the act from happening. First, we recommend looking at DePauw's sexual misconduct policy and acquainting oneself with what registers as sexual misconduct. It includes instances in which a victim is incapacitated and is unable to give consent. Simply telling your friend that it is time to go home or that he or she is too drunk to make a proper decision can prevent circumstances like these from happening.
It is up to every DePauw student who finds himself or herself in these situations to take a stand, even if it means offending a friend. The benefits will surely outweigh the costs.
Second, hold yourself and your friends accountable to knowing the steps to take if a situation such as this occurs. Know how to get your friend help. Seek assistance from a trained professional such as a Sexual Assault Survivor Advocate (S.A.S.A.) and encourage him or her to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Although it may be hard, many times reporting the crime can alleviate pain for the victim and allows for an increased availability of help. Also, reporting can be beneficial for the campus as a whole. When 60 percent of these crimes go unreported, it gives the false image that these incidents do not occur on campus. Increased transparency will lead to increased accountability.
We believe that something needs to be done. A lot of times these cases are happening with people you know, a girl in your sorority, a boy in your class or a teammate. Our hope is that this column will spark conversation that will raise awareness and lead to increased action on this campus regarding sexual assault. If you find yourself reading this column and it strikes a chord with you, feel free to contact either of us to join in creating increased awareness at DePauw. We acknowledge that these things are happening, and we are ready to do something about it — are you?
— Clayton is a senior from Kansas City, Kan., majoring in political science. Wong is a senior from Chicago, majoring in philosophy. opinion@thedepauw.com