As part of efforts for Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we are hoping to put together a compilation of videos from faculty, staff, and administration with messages of support for victims and survivors of sexual assault. We are hoping to collect 15 to 20 second videos by April 17th to compile and send out on the SPEAK Instagram. If you need any assistance in developing the letter or recording, please let Haley Mangette (Haley.Mangette@kzoo.edu)!
Examples of positive affirmations:
- “I want you to know that even though we may have never met, I care about you and believe in you. You are not at fault for what happened to you. You are brave, powerful, intelligent, and I am here for you.”
- “You are not alone. Please, do not hesitate to reach out to resources here at K like the counseling services, the office of gender equity, or our YWCA Advocate, Mya. You are strong. I care about you and want you to know that you do not have to go through this alone.”
- “I believe you. This shouldn’t have happened to you and you are not at fault. You did not do anything to deserve this.”
Phrases/ words to avoid:
- “I understand what you are going through.”
- “You will be okay” or “You will get through this”
- Triggering words (such as rape).
If you would like to participate in this effort but not on video, we have an online anonymous collection you can submit to as well: https://sexualsafety.kzoo.edu/sll/.