Sexual Assault

The USI Code of Conduct outlines “Sexual Imposition.” Sexual imposition is much broader than the traditional concept of rape. Sexual imposition is prohibited by University Code (and the law) and involves sexual acts or sexual contact with others without their consent. This can include compelling someone to submit to sexual acts or contacts by force or threat of force, use of intoxicants to impair the person's power to give consent, engaging in such acts when there is reasonable suspicion to believe the other person suffers from a mental state which renders him or her incapable of understanding the nature of the contact, provide informed consent, or when the person is a minor. The abuse of alcohol or other substances does not relieve individuals of their responsibilities to themselves or others.

Consent means that you hear the word “yes,” not that you don’t hear a “no.” You should get consent for each new behavior every time.

Most sexual assaults that happen among college students occur between people who know each other. They also happen in a residence (apartment, etc.) and when one or both people had been drinking. Men can be sexually assaulted as well as women.

To learn more about sexual assault and the resources available on campus to help prevent it and respond to it, visit USI's sexual assault prevention and response webpage.

Scenario:

You are at a party. During the past hour you notice one of your male friends has been talking to a young woman. They seem to be having a good time but it is clear that the woman has had too much to drink. At one point your friend walks by you and you hear him say he is just going to get her "one more" and "that should be enough." A few minutes later you see him put his arm around the young woman and start to lead her upstairs. What do you do?

Make the first move:

  • Know your level of comfort with conversations and talk about sexual behavior. If you find groups or individuals who talk about sexual relationships that are not in sync with how you feel, or the type of relationship you want, don’t be afraid to state your position.
  • Don’t joke about sexual assault.
  • Don’t encourage friends to drink or have sex as often or with as many people as possible.
  • Be aware of comments and behaviors from others that would indicate they were intent on having sexual intercourse even if the partner was unwilling.
  • Notice if someone is getting ready to have sexual contact with a partner who is incapacitated.

If you notice a situation that concerns you:

  • Try to find out what is going on.
  • Enlist others to help you intervene.
  • Distraction can be a great technique. Separate the parties and get them out of the situation.
  • If you hear of an assault occurring, contact law enforcement.

If you become aware that a sexual assault has occurred:

  • Listen to what the survivor has to say. Believe them.
  • Tell them that it is not their fault.
  • Encourage them to report the assault (to Public Safety, the local Sheriff's Office, the Dean of Students).
  • Encourage them to seek medical care whether or not they choose to report.
  • Encourage them to talk to a professional counselor (Counseling Center, Albion Fellows Bacon Center).
  • If you learn of the perpetrator's identity, don’t suggest or attempt any form of retaliation.

We express our appreciation to the University of Arizona C.A.T.S. Life Skills Program for allowing us to use modified versions of their STEP UP! Program content in this USI campus initiative.