03/21/19
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At the University of Michigan we proudly say that we are the "leaders and best," but words mean nothing when they're not backed up by our actions. Sexual assault statistics at the University of Michigan are worse than nationwide averages, and the univeristy does not provide enough support to survivors of sexual violence.
In 2018, U of M had 277 reports of prohibited sexual conduct and only three cases were found to have violated the university's policy. I understand that every case is different, but we all know that there are more than three people that were violated sexually over the span of a year. They are suffering in silence.
Something needs to change.
In January of 2019, the University of Michigan released a new policy in regards to student sexual and gender based misconduct. I was eager to see the new way my university would be adjudicating sexual misconduct cases.
I clicked the link that was emailed to all students, and the first change that I read about felt like a punch in the gut. The new policy allows for the assailant to cross-examine their accuser.
*cue the protestors*
Because of all the backlash they received, the university notified students that they would be creating an advisory board filled with students, staff, and club leads to come up with a better version of the policy that they had released. All were welcome to apply.
So, I did. Within the hour, I had written almost three pages on why I wanted to be a member of the advisory board. I had never been so eager to get involved with this emotionally taxing work.
About a month later, I was notified that I was accepted to be a member on the advisory committee for the student sexual and gender-based misconduct policy at the University of Michigan. I was ecstatic that I would get to play a part in making this university a better, safer place for all students.
Unfortunately, it hasn’t been all rainbows and butterflies. It’s hard. It’s frustrating. It’s emotionally draining. Some things can’t be changed due to state laws that we have to follow. Other things the administrators are refusing to change.
One day, I made a suggestion during a meeting to change the language in a specific portion of the policy. I found two areas of text that directly contradicted each other. It was in regard to whether or not assailants could bring up the accusers sexual history during the hearing that takes place. I questioned why we would allow that during our hearings if there is a federal rape shield law that makes the practice illegal during criminal proceedings.
We’re in a weird gray area. We have to create a policy in compliance with state laws, but because it’s not a criminal proceeding we don’t have to follow every law that is on the books. Though, that doesn’t excuse our duty to make survivors feel safe and comfortable coming forward with their stories.
As I sat there making my argument, I felt strong.
Four years ago, I was ashamed to admit that I had been assaulted. I was ashamaed to say the word rape. I couldn’t watch television shows that mentioned it. I couldn’t read books that talked about it. I shied away from any and every conversation where the topic came up.
But, there I was, fighting for policy change. Sticking up for people just like me. Using my voice and my experiences to help people that can’t help themselves right now.
I realized how much I have grown.
I have come such a long way.