TO THE EDITOR:
Last week two former students visited campus in a chilling reminder that the issue of sexual assault is not yet solved.
Recounting their experiences in the documentary “The Hunting Ground,” former UNC students Andrea Pino and Annie Clark questioned the effectiveness of University policies relating to the prevention of sexual assault on campus and supporting survivors’ rights in the aftermath.
This message is especially relevant, given that April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The month of April is dedicated to hosting events aimed at expanding the discussion of how to make campus a safer place. As students, we must actively work to combat sexual assault on campus.
The University is participating in the Campus Climate Survey on Sexual Assault. We urge every single student to participate in this survey. Results will remain anonymous but will significantly help the University’s efforts to improve policies relating to sexual harassment, sexual assault and interpersonal violence. The survey can be accessed at safe.unc.edu.
Additionally, St. Anthony Hall is opening its house to the community on Wednesday, April 22 at 7 p.m. to host an inclusive dialogue on how best to tackle the issue of sexual assault on campus, emphasizing the steps individuals can take today to be more effective allies. More information on the Campus Conversations event can be found on the UNC Executive Branch Facebook page.
Andrea and Annie’s experiences are not unique at Carolina. While the University has implemented a series of much needed reforms, the work is not done.
We must take ownership and recognize the role each of us, as individuals, must play in contributing to a safer Carolina.
Rachel Gogal
