Sexual Violence at Union College: What We Can Do

Union College may be a small, Christian campus where everybody knows everybody, but that does not guarantee it is immune to all dangers. Thirteen percent of students in the United States experience rape or sexual assault on their campus during their undergraduate years. Sexual violence is not only more common on campus grounds than any other crime, but it also impacts women and members of the LGBTQ community more than any other group. Because approximately 90% of non-consensual sexual encounters are committed by perpetrators that the survivor knows, sexual violence too often goes unreported. Furthermore, women of color are more likely than white women to be told they are lying when reporting these crimes to authorities, even though they are no more likely to lie and their reports are truthful over 96% of the time. 

So, what can we do to prevent sexual violence here at Union College? First, it’s important to note that most perpetrators of sexual violence commit these actions because of power, not sex. Rape and sexual violence are actions that stem from feelings of inadequacy. Addressing harmful stigmas related to men seeking mental health care plays a huge role in reducing these types of incidents due to the fact that males are the primary perpetrators of sexual violence. This is not meant to say all men are bad in any way, but instead that we should encourage societal viewpoints regarding men using therapy to cope with emotions.  

Second, let’s have an open conversation about sexual encounters. The fear, stigma and shame that surrounds survivors of sexual violence could be largely remedied by open conversation and the reversal of victim blaming. It is okay to speak up when someone makes a degrading sexual “joke” or praises violent actions, even if you are considered the killjoy at the table by bringing it up. Those, along with intimidations, manipulations, paranoia, depression and refusal to accept responsibility for actions, are legitimate warning signs of progressions leading to sexual violence.

Sex, or any other form of physical touching, should be consensual and respectful. Instead of shaming those who are sexually active, let’s prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing. Creating a safe atmosphere, one in which students feel comfortable coming forward with a traumatic experience and one in which students know they will be taken seriously, is a big step.

Lydia Gentry is a senior

international rescue and relief

and social work major from

Hendersonville, N.C.