Rape Precaution E-mail Prompts Concerns
SOUTH BEND, Ind., Members of the University of Notre Dame’s Board of Governance are concerned that a recent E-mail sent by campus security regarding the sexual assault of a St. Mary’s student while on the Notre Dame campus could be construed to mean that rape is partly the victim’s fault.
Officials discussed in the Nov. 14 meeting the E-mail, which included information on assault prevention. According to The Observer, Notre Dame’s college newspaper, the specific wording in question was “never leave your beverage and then pick it back up, never accept a beverage from someone.”
Another concern addressed in the meeting included a discussion posted on the college’s faculty blog, which advised against students wearing provocative clothing. The blog also suggested students be careful with their drinking habits and body language.
A Women’s Issues spokesperson expressed concern about the wording and tone of the E-mail and blog. She hoped they would have mentioned the school’s counseling center and Women’s Center as places where victims can get help.
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