LEARN HOW TO RESPOND
Research shows that initial responses to incidents of sexual violence make a significant difference in outcomes and system navigation for survivors.
MYTH BUSTING
Understanding systems of discrimination and myths about sexual violence are key to addressing the root causes of sexual violence and harassment.
RESOURCES
Resources within and outside of the educational institution can expand the support systems for survivors of sexual violence and for those to whom they disclose.
Understanding Sexual Violence
“Sexual violence means any sexual act or act targeting a person’s sexuality, gender identity or gender expression, whether the act is physical or psychological in nature, that is committed, threatened or attempted against a person without the person’s consent, and includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism and sexual exploitation.” Bill 132
Sexual Violence is:
• a very common occurrence • highly under-reported • has a very low conviction rate when reported • gender-based discrimination (targets a person’s sexuality, gender identity or gender expression) • the subject of powerful and pervasive myths that obscure reality, sustain systems of discrimination, and create the conditions that cause under-reporting and low conviction rates.Understanding systems of discrimination and myths about sexual violence are key to addressing the root causes of sexual violence and harassment.
It’s Never OK
In 2015, the Province of Ontario unveiled It’s Never Okay and introduced the Sexual Violence and Harassment Action Plan Act, Bill 132, which amends the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities Act.
Barriers to Disclosure
There are many reasons for survivors to not disclose experiences of sexual violence. Canadian data show that less than 10% of sexual assaults are reported to the police.
Sexual Violece Effects Everyone
While mainly women are victims of sexual violence, it also happens to people of all genders, sexual orientation, race, ability and economic status.
Systems of discrimination
Interrelating systems of discrimination (e.g., racism, class, inequality, ableism, including psychiatric labels, sexism, cissexism, heterosexism) structure the relative social locations of all survivors of sexual violence and impacts their experiences and outcomes.