Hallie Mayes
Lantern Staff
Getting cat-called, pick-up lines that do nothing but make someone uncomfortable and feeling the sense of eyes that linger for far too tong is the unfortunate reality for 70% of college students. According to an article posted by ThinkProgress, this 70% percent of the student body has been negatively affected by harassment on campus allowing education to suffer.
Butler has adapted to this additional challenge students face in their years at college. An additional course entitled Voices for Change appears in Canvas alongside the students enrolled classes. This training is free for all students and takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete. Throughout the course, students learn what is or is not sexual violence as well as learning how to be proactive and aware of harassment happening to others. Training has been delivered via Canvas since 2016. New to the course this semester is an additional module attached to the program. This module focuses on reflecting on one’s identity as well as inclusion of others.
Normally, Voices for Change sexual violence course runs between a 25% to 38% completion rate. However, this semester only 21% of the student body has taken the extra step to educate themselves on sexual violence. Upon completion, students will have learned how to identify and prevent different types of harassment as well as learn bystander intervention and how to report concerns and incidents. In investigating the success rate of the training for Butler’s students and staff, any exposure to sexual violence awareness is beneficial. In 2015, there were 12 sexual harassment cases. This program was then instated in 2016, numbers have dropped to last year only four cases were reported.
“Although even one case is too many, I feel the lower numbers show that awareness and training makes a difference,” Sherri Conard, director of First Year Experience, said.
These cases of sexual assault and violence can leave victims traumatized affecting every part of their life. As informed in the training, recognize the signs. If your friend becomes more hostile, withdrawn, depressive, be aware and contact Conard if you fear something has happened. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault and wish to not report the incident, the Counselor Nancy Hamm (316) 322-3162 or College Health (316) 322- 3371 are free of charge and have resources to help students discretely. Along with the training, students are given resources to help reduce the chances of being violated as well as reduce the chances of being accused of sexual violence.
“I have experienced sexual harassment on Butler campus multiple times as I have walked to class,” one student who wishes to remain anonymous said. “I was never physically violated but being objectified in that way does take a toll on you.”
Be aware of the effect your action has on others. Be proactive in protecting yourself and one another. Voices for Change training is available through canvas. Complete the course and educate yourself on how to prevent and recover from sexual violence on campus.
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