Implementing A Required Sexual Violence Introduction Course For Freshman

Implementing A Required Sexual Violence Introduction Course For Freshman

Started
April 14, 2022
Signatures: 48Next Goal: 50
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Why this petition matters

Started by Ewurabena Aggrey

There are multiple layers of sex that need to be discussed, with consent being on the top of that list. As of right now, the University of Maryland is relying on an online systematic approach to educate their students on what not to do to prevent sexual harassment. Teaching students in person is more effective than online surveys and quizzes. Especially for topics regarding the severity of sexual misconduct. Experiencing sexual harassment while on campus is at the percentage of 25%. With the National University’s belief in the importance of the hands-on approach, would this method not be an extremely beneficial resolution in burning down this percentage due to its severity? 

 Establishing an educational environment where educators are hands-on with their students could possibly reduce the percentage of which sexual harassment occurs at. Creating a required freshman introduction course for all students is the first step to properly taking action in ensuring all students' safety, preparing them morally for the real world, and educating them and hopefully those around them about the severity of the matter. This course will focus on what research proves to be effective in lowering cases of sexual assault. This includes defining sexual violence, bystander intervention, the role the patriarchy plays for both female and male victims, violence against the LGBT community, the role Greek life plays in sexual violence, and comprehensive resources for survivors. This course will be a semester-long and worth 1 credit. 

It is apparent that as of right now the University's approach to tackling the issues regarding sexual violence is not effective. Our University's President dismissed the severity of this issue by saying "It is not a big problem". It is clear that the statistics prove that this is a prevalent issue. We need to start developing better solutions in order to ensure the safety of our students. 

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Signatures: 48Next Goal: 50
Support now