On September 10th, 2024, A USF student came forward about a sex crime she experienced at the hand of a former student, who was given a platform by the Pro-Palestine Organization TampaBaySDS. Not only was Justine brave for sharing her story, but the unfortunate reality is that she wouldn't have to if TampaBaySDS would have just acknowledged the crime, and taken down the post of her assaulter when it was first brought to them. 

the negligence of TampaBaySDS has forced Justine to go public with her story, leading to potential safety risks and consequences no survivor should have to face. 

TampaBaySDS not only claimed to have lost her email, but have yet to publicly acknowledge or take any kind of accountability for their role in their complacency of sexual violence. 

Justine is a woman in her early 20s; she loves reading books she got a discount for at used book stores, she loves classical music, she wants to become a social worker; dedicating her life to help others the way she wished she was helped. Justine's favorite thing to do is explore the city. She loves history. She's an immensely outgoing, witty, talented girl. This situation has stolen the light Justine gave to all of us just by being herself. TampaBaySDS is complacent, either intentionally or unintentionally, and needs to take public accountability; instead of privately excusing themselves from any kind of criticism. This is unacceptable.

We are urging TampaBaySDS to take accountability publicly on their Instagram. To take a page out of Justine's book and publicly own up to their mistakes as an organization. Then and only then will healing and rebuilding can go into affect for the parties affected. 

Justine is someone's daughter, someone's sister, someone's best friend, someone's girlfriend, someone's classmate; she is someone. She isn't the only one impacted by sex crimes, but her bravery to stand up for herself will inspire many survivors. 

(to note, we support all efforts for a ceasefire, but we do not support and will not support TampaBaySDS until accountability is taken)

You can read Justine's story here: https://www.reddit.com/r/USF/comments/1fd3321/holding_tampabaysds_accountable/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button