When I first started hearing about sexual assault at Ohio University, it was behind closed doors.
When I first started hearing about sexual assault at Ohio University, it was behind closed doors. Friends would tell me about what happened to them, what happened to people they knew and cared about, in private conversations. It took me a long time to realize how pervasive sexual violence was and is on this campus because no one was talking about it publicly.
In order to make Ohio University a safer campus for all its students, we first have to come to terms with the reasons why it currently isn’t safe. Right now we have a difficult time speaking openly about what happens here. One of the goals of F--k Rape Culture is to eradicate that crippling silence.
Freshmen who have finished the Not Anymore have seen and heard stories about college students dealing with sexual violence. Today at 5 at the Athens Courthouse, come hear about sexual violence at Ohio University. F--k Rape Culture is encouraging anyone who has a story to share to take part in our open forum in order to open up the conversation on this campus before the first weekend begins. Even if you don’t have a story or don’t feel comfortable speaking, come bear witness to the testimonies of your fellow students.
The administration can make policy changes and require freshmen to complete online courses, but it’s up to the students ourselves to force a culture shift, to stop shaming and silencing survivors and start supporting them. We have the ability and the responsibility to stand with our fellow students who have experienced sexual assault. Friday at 5, we can take the first step toward creating a better campus by listening to each other and sharing our own stories. We can make Ohio University safe for all students, but first we must bring the issue into the light.
If you have experienced sexual violence and want to talk with someone, you can contact the survivor advocacy program at 740-597-SAFE (7233). Trained advocates are on call to support you.
Madison Koenig is a senior studying english literature at Ohio University’s Honors Tutorial College.
