In Canada, only 6 out of 100 sexual assault cases are reported. One in three women, and one in six men will experience sexual violence of some sort throughout their life.
In an effort to help educate the masses more, the Canadian government has made it mandatory for all universities and colleges to offer relief programs and participate in sexual awareness week. During this week, schools are encouraged to promote education on the topic through events such as the sexual awareness fair taking place on Thursday at Forewell Hall in Fanshawe.
Leah Marshall, the sexual violence prevention advisor at the college, tells us about what the college offers for victims seeking support.
“Not only do we provide confidential support here at counseling and accessibility services, but I also meet with students to help them review their options in terms of counselling, medical care, reporting and legal options. We also do educational and prevention initiatives at least twice a month, and most of these programs are student led. It’s a great way to help change the culture on campus.”
Marshall continues by saying that the best way we can get rid of sexual violence is by educating people on what consent really means.
“There’s a lot of stigma that exists in our society around sexual violence. If we want to get rid of that stigma, a good place to start would be by promoting healthy and safe sexual attitudes and behaviours in our society.”
Make sure you head to Forwell Hall this Thursday to learn more about sexual awareness and help educate those around you.
