3.14 Sexual Assault Sexual assault is a serious problem for the nation and for our campus. It is a violation of one's personal integrity, and is characterized by non-consensual sexual conduct, which includes oral copulation, penetration by a foreign object, caressing, fondling, or touching of a person's genitalia, buttocks, or breasts. Studies show that between 15 to 25% of college women have been survivors of rape or attempted rape at some time in their lives. Sexual assaults occur between men and women, women and women, and men and men. Furthermore, it occurs across all races, ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, ages, and socioeconomic classes. Most reported incidents, however, are of men sexually assaulting women. Sexual violence, including acquaintance rape, can have a profound impact on an individual's mental and physical health. Sexual assault can significantly affect the survivor's academics, work, personal safety and general well-being, as well as friends and family. Sexual assault is never the fault of the victim, and not every assault can be prevented. However, it is important to keep yourself as safe as possible. Here are some tips on how to be safe:
If you are interested in learning more about what you can do to prevent sexual assault, go ahead and contact University Health Services' Health Promotion division at 642-7202. Health Promotion offers workshops, self defense classes and consultation. Topics covered in the workshops can include: acquaintance rape (rape by someone you know), gender roles in society, domestic violence, childhood sexual abuse, resources for assault survivors, alcohol and other drugs, racism and sexual assault, homophobia and sexual assault. If at any time during your stay in Berkeley you (or someone you know) becomes a victim of sexual assault, find a trusting friend to talk to, go to the emergency room, call a rape crisis line, and call the police. The following resources should prove helpful: I. Campus Resources
II. Community Resources
Final note: No one deserves to be sexually assaulted. If it happens, don't be afraid to tell someone and get help. Also look out for each other - if you see it happening or notice that some form of sexual harassment, exploitation, or intimidation is going on, work up the courage to say something about it. Sometimes, silence can mean that you condone it.
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Thai Student Association at the University of California, Berkeley
