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SpeechesChanging Attitudes About Sexual Aggression and Violence
Graham B. Spanier
Crimes of aggression and sexual violence are a serious problem in our nation and in our own community. At Penn State, we are fully committed to combating sexual violence and to responding quickly and compassionately to those victimized by it. April 1, 2006 April is designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to focus public attention on what has been called a "silent epidemic" because crimes of this nature often go unreported. Now is the time to increase our understanding of the effect these crimes have on victims. It is the time to make a statement as a community that we will not tolerate rape, sexual assault, domestic violence or other harmful acts that destroy the dignity and self-worth of any member of our community. We should be concerned that these heinous crimes can and do happen in our community, and we must all work together to change attitudes, to educate one another, and to identify prevention strategies. We must hold the offenders accountable and promote healing and justice for victims. There is no room on any Penn State campus, or anywhere in society, for violence. Through education, advocacy, intervention, and the creation of safer surroundings, Penn State is working to prevent rape and sexual assault. We are committed to ensuring access to medical care, counseling, and other services for victims, and we will prosecute the perpetrators of such acts of violence. Let us leave no doubt that we are a community that cares about its members. We cannot allow fear of sexual assault to shatter the safety and trust we cherish. The items below outline many of the services, educational programs and policies at the University to combat crimes of sexual violence and to promote sexual assault awareness among students.
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