KELLY & BECCA ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP WITH DELTA GAMMA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 25, 2010
Contact: Nicole Porter
Director of Communications
614-481-8169
nicole@deltagamma.org



Delta Gamma’s New Partnership Spreads the Word About Sexual Assault Awareness

Columbus, Ohio -- Delta Gamma Fraternity has partnered with an innovative speaking duo, Kelly Addington and Becca Tieder, (kellyandbecca.com) who are experts on sexual assault awareness, prevention and sexual empowerment. Kelly and Becca are nationally recognized for their achievements in sexual assault education and prevention. This partnership encourages opportunities to expose more collegiate and community audiences to the message.

Since 2003, Kelly and Becca have shared their message with hundreds of campuses, communities and national professional conferences reaching more than half a million people. In 2006, they founded Unite for Change, (uniteforchange.com) a global campaign to promote sexual assault awareness and prevention, sexual health and healthy sexuality. In 2009, they launched the popular educational tool Sexversations® and in 2010 they were honored to announce The No Woman Left Behind Campaign as their latest educational initiative.

According to Fraternity President Beth Searcy, "A key component of Delta Gamma's strategic plan is to cultivate partnerships to advance the mission of Delta Gamma. Kelly and Becca's program helps us create opportunities to have critical conversations about sexuality, alcohol, healing and hope. Sexual assault is a serious issue in our culture, particularly on our campuses, so Delta Gamma is proud to unite with Kelly and Becca in their vital message of empowerment."

In partnership with Delta Gamma Fraternity, Kelly and Becca aim to link individuals together to help build communities that are part of the solution to end sexual violence. Unlike any other program on the topic of sexual violence, Kelly and Becca use humor to inform and inspire. Using their signature three-step model, they teach participants how they can help reduce sexual violence. Armed with their personal experience, expertise and unique ability to relate to each member of the audience, their programs treat men and women as allies while focusing on the importance of communication, bystander intervention, personal responsibility and supporting survivors. With sexual empowerment as their platform they decode the toxic language surrounding sex and offer innovative ways to address alcohol, sex under the influence and date rape drugs. Always upbeat, their emphasis is on acknowledging that students are not the problem but the solution.

Founded in 1873, Delta Gamma is an international fraternity, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, consisting of more than 200,000 members. A leader among Greek organizations, Delta Gamma is dedicated to promoting educational and cultural interests and creating a true sense of social responsibility. Through the nationally recognized philanthropy, Service for Sight; award winning publication, The ANCHORA of Delta Gamma; and lauded risk management programming, Delta Gamma is committed to instilling the best qualities of character. For more information, please visit www.deltagamma.org.

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where is your line?

An important focus for Unite for Change in 2010 is to bring activists, seekers and leaders some really fresh, poignant works of art (which will include but is not limited to music, film, dance, painting, sculpture and theatre) that will engage others in a dialogue of violence prevention. Several of these items along with other innovative products and educational goods will be listed in a new section of our web site, titled Creative Goods. This will be a go to place for folks looking for anything from a great book or sexually empowered merchandise to works of art that will help reach audiences in a way that is engaging and thought provoking.


Pieces like Nancy Schwartzman’s film, THE LINE is of the caliber of what we are highlighting. The film asks, where is your line of consent? Seems simple, right? In a world growing up with no means no and messages and undertones that dismantle that belief, the idea of what consent is becomes muddled at best.

Enter Nancy.

Nancy tells her story of how she was raped by a man she had consensual sex with and compares her experience to her friend, who was raped by a stranger. She beautifully calls into question why association (although this is very likely given most rapists are not strangers) makes survivors and society often ask if it was really rape. Nancy goes as far as to return to Israel and confront her rapist on camera. He does not feel like he has done anything wrong but maybe it was sex that went too far. Ask yourself, when did we even allow “sex that went too far” to be anything other than rape? When did that become okay? Another reason this film is so important.

THE LINE is powerful because not only did it move us when we viewed it, but it has stayed with us and we think it will do the same for you. Part of the films strength comes from the experts Nancy interviews such as the well known attorney Brett Sokolow and a sex worker at the infamous Bunny Ranch. It may seem odd or ironic to have a lawyer who is an expert on sexual assault and a sex worker help establish a clear line of consent but they both contribute important messages to the film, including how much work there is to do in fully understanding consent and sex. In this film (around 30 minutes) Nancy takes us full circle on her journey. She is candid, honest, likeable and funny. The style of the film will help engage all types of people in the discussion about, sex, sexual assault and consent; a conversation that needs to take place far more frequently.

Our suggestion…

Reach out to Nancy. Say hello. Invite Nancy to your campus or community to discuss her documentary with you. Or check out where she is headed by visiting her web site http://www.thelinemovie.org/. Don’t miss a great opportunity to check out a fully endorsed Creative Good that helps break down the barriers of discussing consent in a way that is inclusive and insightful.

Nancy Schwartzman, writer, filmaker and activist

Justice for Rape Survivors

Thanks to Change.org for posting this...


Tell Congress to Pass the Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act of 2009.

Targeting: The U.S. House
Started by: Roxann MtJoy

To address the national crisis of untested rape kit backlogs -- estimated at 180,000 -- Representatives Al Franken (D-MN), Charles Grassley (R-IA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and Orrin Hatch (R-UT) have introduced the Justice for Survivors of Sexual Assault Act of 2009 to the House of Representatives.

This bipartisan bill would regulate grants funds earmarked for the DNA testing of rape kits, implement financial incentives for jurisdictions to aggressively attack and eliminate their backlogs, provide for a national system for collecting data on rape kits, and eliminate the appalling practice of having the victims of sexual assault pay for their own rape kits.

Tell your Representative that you want them to support the Justice of Survivor of Sexual Assault Act of 2009. It's super easy, just click here.

Unite for Change Seeks Amazing Student Leader

Spring 2010 Opportunity: Program Development Intern

Unite for Change is currently working on a ground breaking outreach project for campus communities across Florida. We are seeking a driven, visionary thinker to assist in developing this revolutionary initiative that will unite college students and communities to promote sexual assault awareness, healthy sexuality and sexual health. This is a chance to gain real experience in organizational outreach and leadership development while addressing sexual violence.

Qualified applicants must be a leader within their college community and be comfortable working with various groups such as Res Life, First Year Experience, Student Government, Greek Life, and Athletics from both their home campus and campuses across the state of Florida. Candidates must have strong communication skills both oral and written and have previously held or currently holding a leadership position on campus.

The ideal candidate will be an articulate, creative and organized self starter who is knowledgeable in sexual health and sexual violence reduction or possesses the skills and has an interest in learning about the issue(s).

This is a part-time telecommuting intern position. Start date is January 2010 and will conclude in May 2010. Stipend will be paid upon completion of internship. Prefer applicants within the state of Florida but not required. If desired, we will work with the student and university to ensure college credit is provided for the internship.

Please submit your resume and cover letter no later than 12/15 to info@kellyandbecca.com with subject line: Intern Resume.

Determined to make a difference!

Often news outlets only report about the issues related to sexual assault when tragedy strikes but in this case renowned columnist for the St. Petersburg Times Ernest Hooper was simply inspired by Sabrina, our friend and social outreach intern who is driven by the moniker determined to make a difference.

When we decided to start our internship program we had no idea how great its impact would be on us. We hoped to teach but what we have been taught is far greater. Sabrina Sadler, our current intern has inspired us more than she could ever know. We are grateful for the impact her commitment to ending and addressing sexual violence has had on Unite for Change. She is a visionary rock star and at our staff retreat this week she helped us guide the future of Unite for Change, offering ideas and direction. We can’t wait to introduce Sabrina to some of our allies at the 2009 Sexual Assault in our Schools conference in Orlando this weekend.

In the article Ernest Hooper beautifully outlined how we all make choices, difficult choices but what we do with the deck we are dealt is what defines who we are and what we are capable of doing. Sabrina reminds all of us that we can and will make a difference. You just have to be willing to believe in yourself and others.

After meeting with Sabrina, Ernest Hooper said it best, "Anyone with a heart, anyone who cares about humanity, anyone who wants to end sexual assault and promote sexual empowerment should learn about Unite For Change".

We hope you too feel the same way.

Please follow the link to read the article and leave a comment, thank you again to the Times for covering such an important issue.


Unite for Change- fights sex abuse

Ernest Hooper, Metro Columnist

In Print: Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Serious Over-Reporting Situation at UC Davis

by Sabrina Sadler, Social Outreach Intern

This was the first article I’ve had the chance to read, regarding the over-reported sex crime statistics from UC Davis.

My immediate thoughts first raised question to the school. How was UC Davis unaware of the over-reported sex crimes for 3 consecutive years?

I also wondered which statistics are actually correct. I know college campuses do not want to have high crime statistics. Is this a way for UC Davis to lower campus sex crimes while not taking fault for it?

Sexual assault is one of the most under reported crimes, with 60% of crimes being left unreported. (U.S. Department of Justice.2005 National Crime Victimization Study. 2005)

I do not know all the facts to this story, but from the articles I have read, the blame seems to focus on the director of the Campus Violence Prevention Program, Jennifer Beeman. Although this action may fall back on her, it is important that UC Davis is not an innocent bystander in the situation. The media and society should hold all parties responsible.


Read the article posted below or take a peak at the article links and let me know what you think.

Campus Safety Magazine: UC Davis Over-Reports Sexual Offenses by 140%

The Sacramento Bee: Feds investigate allegedly inflated UC Davis crime reports

UC Davis: We Thought Those Sex Crime Stats Seemed High...

School doesn't know why stats were over-reported, but UC Davis is in lead for $1mil Department of Justice grant

By: Matthew Keys FOX40 News

October 1, 2009

DAVIS - An internal review of sex crime reports shows the University of California at Davis accidentally reported higher than accurate statistics, a new press release from the school read Thursday.

In February, FOX40 News reported UC Davis had more reported cases of sexual assaults on campus than all other University of California schools combined, a statistic that the school spun as a positive sign that students felt comfortable reporting crimes on campus.

Now, the school says an internal review shows the campus mistakenly reported a higher than accurate instance of sex crimes.

UC Davis said the school first became aware of a problem when a staff member began compiling statistics for the Clery Act report for the previous school year. The staff member found a total of 17 sex crime reports, significantly lower than the 57 reports filed in 2007 and the 52 reports filed in 2006.

Upon further review by UC Davis campus police, the school found only 10 reports of sex crimes were reported in 2005, 4 reports in 2006 and 16 reports in 2007.

"The problem with the reporting of these statistics was an isolated incident related solely to one individual," assistant executive vice chancellor Robert Loessberg-Zahl said.

UC Davis admits the school error began by relying on a single sole individual, director of the Campus Violence Prevention Program Jennifer Beeman, to review and report statistics relating to the Clery Act. The school said they're not sure why Beeman over-reported the crime statistics; however, UC Davis is one of several schools in the lead for a $1 million federal grant from the Department of Justice aimed at "enhancing services for crime victims," the school said.

Beeman retired from UC Davis in June after being employed as the director of the Campus Violence Prevention Program for sixteen years. FOX40's Kenny Lopez attempted to interview Beeman at her Sacramento home this afternoon; Beeman greeted Lopez at the door by saying "No comment." She later called our newsroom, asking to speak to a different reporter. When Lopez called her back, she once again said she had no comment.

The school now says a panel comprised of officials from the UC Davis Police Department, the Office of Student Judicial Affairs, the City of Davis Police Department and the City of Sacramento Police Department will review statistics for both on and off-campus crimes relating to information found in future reports under the Clery Act.

Copyright © 2009, KTXL-TV

Call for Programs

We are thrilled to introduce our new Programs for Change initiative developed by our fabulous social outreach intern, Sabrina Sadler.


We invite you to join the Unite for Change Campaign. With so many students and campus professionals creating and joining programs and organizations throughout the world that are doing all kinds of good in their communities to help prevent sexual assault and promote healthy sexuality we want to do our part to help spread the word and inspire others to take action in their respective hoods.

The first Monday of each month starting November 2nd Unite for Change is going to highlight a Program for Change. If you are currently a member of a campus or community project that’s making a difference or would like to nominate a program that has impacted you please e-mail Sabrina at sabrina@kellyandbecca.com

Approved programs will be shared through the Unite for Change Facebook group page, posted on the KellyandBecca.com blog and also featured on http://www.uniteforchange.com/

These are the deets we need to get started-

1. Name of your school and/ or organization

2. Title for the program/resource

3. Target audience

4. Goals/ objectives

5. Program description

6. Contact information and website if applicable

Thank you in advance for your submissions. We look forward to showcasing your community initiative as a Program for Change.

Hopeful, Determined & Focused,

The Unite for Change Team

Fall Conference to Consider

Unite for Change is proud to be a co-sponsor for the 2009 National Conference on Sexual Assault in Our Schools hosted by the Safe Society Zone . This years conference is being held November 13- 15 in Orlando, FL . The annual conference brings together campus and community professionals, students, peer educators, safety and security, health professionals and military personnel to address the issues surrounding sexual violence on campus. There's lots of opporunity for learning and networking and a great program line-up including presenters such as yours truly, Ben Atherton-Zeman, Andrea Cooper, Saundra, Schuster, Brett Sokolow, Joesph Vess and many more.

Early registration is open until October 31st. Check out the web-site and see if it's something you can swing this year or maybe put on your calendar for next year.

We hope to see you in warm, sunny Florida in November!

Sex & Alcohol

Whenever I see stuff like this:

I can't help but think of this:

The definition for Drug-Facilitated Sexual Assault
Drug facilitated sexual assault is generally used to define situations in which victims are subjected to non consensual sexual acts while they are incapacitated or unconscious due to the effects of alcohol and/or other drugs and are therefore, prevented from resisting and/or are unable to give consent.

The Great Greek Debate

Most of you know how tiring conferences can be. You get up really early, gather, listen, learn, network, meet all sorts of new people, break for lunch, gather again, listen some more, break for happy hour but it’s not truly a break because you’re networking your tail off. Then you realize its midnight and you just want to sleep. Your brain stopped working hours ago and your body is ready to finally give in. This past year we were at a conference and approaching the midnight hour when we hopped on the elevator to head back to our room and turn in for the night. There was an older woman standing next to us on the elevator and she looked at the conference name lanyard hanging around my neck and she asked what it meant. I told her the full name of the conference and she just stared at me so I explained that Becca and I were speakers and we work primarily with college students to help end sexual violence. I was hopeful that the conversation would end there. Not a chance. She asked what types of student groups we work with and I rattled off several different organizations. She said, “It’s good that you talk to Frat boys because that’s really the reason for date rape.”

Rrrrrk, needle scratch the record. Hold the phone Ramone. What did she just say? As soon as the hard-hitting words left the woman’s lips I woke up, Becca and I looked at one another, took a deep breath and consciously fought going into super defense mode. It was late and we were exhausted, but here we go. We could have ignored her, politely smiled and waited for our floor to light up, but that would be the easy way out and even though we were dog tired, we are impassioned activists. Avoiding her comment just would not feel right and so the heated conversation with the unknown woman in the elevator began.


I quickly fired back by blurting out the number of tremendous leaders that are Greek, some of them United States President’s for crying out loud. Becca cut in and began rattling off financial details about the tremendous good deeds of Greek organization’s noting their philanthropic contributions.

Okay, so that conversation was ALL in my head, but you know sometimes the conversations I have in my head are the best kind because they usually have a great sound track playing in the background, the perfect dose of dramatic flare and they always end with me feeling brilliant and victorious. Enough about my flawlessly twisted thoughts, lets get back to the elevator commotion.

For a split second, I thought it would be a good idea to reply to this woman by saying, “You are wrong and you just don’t understand because you’re not Greek lady,” then walk off and possibly talk a little trash about her with my home girl B.T. along the way. Yes, that would be easy and maybe even fun but that’s not necessarily the right thing to do and that’s not what we did. Becca and I took turns arm wrestling her instead. Okay, that did not happen either but just for the record, I totally would have won.

What really happened is we both politely smiled at the woman in the elevator and said something like this, “I’m sorry you feel that way. We have worked with many Greek men and women on campuses all over the country that are committed to preventing sexual assault and speaking out against violence. I can see why you might feel that way though, because unfortunately opinions are often made about all Fraternity men and Sorority women based on several isolated incidents.” The woman smiled at us both and said, “Good for you. Thank you.”


Nice. Very nice.

But let’s pretend the conversation in my head was really our reaction. What then? If we responded to her comment in an overly defensive manner we would have missed out on a huge opportunity to educate. Moments like this do not have to turn into a heated confrontation or the great Greek debate, especially not in such a tiny confined space. When people blatantly share their negative personal assumptions about our values, character and actions, we might be inclined to respond defensively and point out their flaws, but if we do, we are missing out on a tremendous opportunity to remove the unfortunate stigma associated with being Greek.

Greek men and women are doing lots of good throughout the land. We get the chance to witness their character, values and achievements on the regular and we could not be more proud of our brothers and sisters or more proud to be Greek.


Here’s just one example of what we see and are sometimes lucky enough to be a part of --

The sisters of Delta Gamma at Southern Methodist University host a sexual assault awareness program for all incoming students on their campus each year through the Delta Gamma Foundation Lectureship in Values and Ethics. We are extremely proud and honored to have been a part of this program for the third year in a row. Thank you to the women of Delta Gamma for all you do, not just on the first day of class but throughout the year to help make your campus a safer place for everyone.

Crime Reporting on Cruise Ships

THE CRUISE VESSEL SAFETY AND SECURITY ACT
by Sabrina Sadler, Social Outreach Intern

Have you ever gone on a cruise or thought about going on a cruise? Did you ever think of crimes happening on a cruise?

I came across the following article that introduces The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act. This bill would “initiate a new Website, with reports updated quarterly on the number of crimes, their nature, and whether or not passengers or crew members are implicated. Each cruise line must also link to the crime statistics page from its Website.”

The second part of this article that I found to be important was that sexual assault occurs on these cruise ships, thankfully the law requires that these vessels carry rape investigation kits and hire or train an employee to preserve the evidence. It is unfortunate that cruise ships would even need these precautions but I am pleased to see that it is the law.

The truth is no one wants to think of being sexually assaulted, robbed, or any other crime while on vacation. But the reality is, it could happen and it does happen. I am glad to see that this bill is being put into action and with my highest hopes, I hope that it passes and cruise vessels are held accountable for the crime taking place on their vessels.

Bill would tighten crime reporting for cruises
Legislation would force lines to report on rapes, robberies, other crimes
updated 8:53 a.m. PT, Fri., July 31, 2009

MIAMI - Vacationers shopping for a cruise might soon have more things to consider than prices and itineraries. They may be able to compare the number of passengers allegedly raped, robbed or lost at sea under a bill approved Thursday for a vote by the U.S. House of Representatives.
The House Transportation and Infrastructure committee's unanimous approval of the measure, following a Senate committee's passage, clears the way for a vote in both chambers shortly after Congress returns from its August recess.

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act tightens restrictions on an industry that has long evaded much scrutiny — in part because of the complexity of international maritime law.
The industry initially opposed the bill, but the Cruise Lines International Association changed its stance. CLIA says most companies already follow many of the provisions — like sharing crime data with the Coast Guard — and some other components are already addressed under existing federal law.

"Millions of passengers each year enjoy a safe cruise vacation, and while serious incidents are rare, even one incident is one too many," CLIA said in a written statement. "As an industry, we are fully committed to the safety and security of our passengers and crew."

Because the industry has refused to release data to the public, the actual crime rate aboard the vessels is unknown but seems low. According to a U.S. House of Representatives memo from 2007, cruise industry executives testified that 178 people in North America reported sexual assaults from 2003 to 2005, and 24 passengers went missing. Compared with about 26 million passengers sailing during the period, those figures amount to crime rates far lower than the national average.

Because sexual assault is among the most frequently alleged crimes — and crew members are often alleged to be the perpetrators — the law requires that each ship carry rape investigation kits and hire or train an employee to preserve evidence.

Ships must also carry antiretroviral medicine to help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, upgrade video surveillance and install peep holes, security latches and time-sensitive locks on all guest rooms.

Bill sponsors Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry and California Rep. Doris Matsui, both Democrats, started working on the issue after constituents shared stories of alleged rape, grief, fear and losing loved ones at sea.

Ken Carver, who brought the issue to Kerry's attention, started a nonprofit called International Cruise Victims after his daughter disappeared on a ship in 2005. He says he was lied to and stonewalled as he tried to learn what happened to her. Other passengers have related similar stories in testimony before Congress.

"In the past three years, I have met far too many American families which have incurred tragedy during what ought to be a relaxing vacation," Matsui said. "For far too long, American families have unknowingly been at risk on cruise ships."

The Secretary of Transportation would initiate a new Web site under the bill with reports updated quarterly on the number of crimes, their nature and whether passengers or crew members are implicated. Each cruise line must also link to the crime statistics page from its Web site.

A Little Piece of Me

by Sabrina Sadler, Social Outreach Intern

I am a Survivor of Sexual Assault.

I have had the opportunity to share my story with my friends, my family, my fellow collegians, and complete strangers. During this period of my healing process my case was put on hold.

Recently my case got a Lead.

Exciting right? But what does this mean for me?

I believe that one of the most healing things to do as a survivor of sexual assault is to share your story, whether it is with one person or many. Each one of us, who is a survivor of sexual assault, holds a different story within, waiting to be told, and it is these stories that tie us together and give us strength.

Since my case has recently been re-opened, I am faced with the chance of my case going to trial, which means if I want the best case for myself, I can no longer openly talk about my story until it is closed.

So in the mean time I wait…and wait…and wait.

Cases don’t come and go as fast as they do on ‘Law and Order’, but I wish they did.

Our justice system is a timely process and everything has to be done right, in order for my case to be strong.

I will never forget the day I got the phone call from my detective saying we have a lead. I was caught completely off guard and feeling every emotion possible…

Relief. Sadness. Scared. Happy. Terrified.

I couldn’t believe this day had finally come.

Now that it has been a little while since that phone call, I continue to wait for my case to take its course, but everyday I contemplate if the silence is worth keeping.

I look at Kelly and Becca, and think how amazing it is for them to travel to various colleges and share their story, the story of Kelly’s Sexual Assault and the story of Kelly and Becca’s Friendship.

For those of you who have seen the 2020 episode of the DeAnza College Gang Rape. I’m thankful for Lauren, Chief, and April to share the story, and speak on behalf of the Survivor.

It is very empowering to share such a personal and tragic story with others. Sexual Assault is about having power and control. As a survivor we try to gain that power and control back.

In my situation, I sometimes feel the Justice system takes my power and control away from me, once again.

I do have the choice to speak or not to speak, but that is weighed on the fact of having a strong or weak case.

Sexual Boundaries and Vacation

By Molly Hays, Communications Intern

The Sexversations 3 of diamonds asks, “Do your sexual boundaries change while on vacation or spring break and if so is that okay? (ex. What happens in Mexico stays in Mexico!)”

It may not be spring break anymore, but summer is prime vacation time. And packed along with the sunscreen and swimsuit are often preconceived notions of sexual fun made possible by changing sexual boundaries.

Why do vacations validate changing sexual boundaries? Is it because you probably won’t ever see anyone you meet at the bar in Cancun again? Does relaxation relax boundaries? What makes it okay to do things on vacation that you normally wouldn’t do back home?

While not everyone’s sexual boundaries change on vacation it’s safe to say that spring break has a reputation for combining binge drinking and casual sex. But does alcohol inebriation change sexual boundaries alone?

Often consent to changing sexual boundaries can be overpowered by alcohol. A new study by the Journal of American College Health reports that 20 percent of undergraduate women experience sexual assault during their college years. In addition, 11 percent were assaulted while incapacitated.

Pregnancies, STDs and STIs, and moral implications can result of changing sexual boundaries; its then that spring break breaks down. Because what happens in Vegas, doesn’t always stay in Vegas.

Alcohol & Sex: A Disastrous Combination

By Molly Hays, Communications Intern

In 2005, more than 97,000 college students ranging in age from 18 to 24 were victims of alcohol-related acquaintance rape or sexual assault according to collegedrinkingprevention.gov. This specific website aims to change drinking habits in college students.
97,000 is a staggering number, and presumably that number has only been increasing as campuses swell.

Alcohol and sex prove to be a disastrous combination, not just for college students.

That’s why, the Sexversations® 3 of hearts card, provides an interesting question; “If someone was drinking and they are sexually assaulted, does that mean it's their fault?”

First off, I would exclaim loudly that no, it’s not their fault. Yet, a culture of victim blaming has developed, in which the victim is not only blamed but disgraced.

No one can ever predict or prepare to guard themselves against sexual assault; however precautions can be taken to better help ensure your own personal safety. Again, even if precautions are disregarded, that doesn’t mean the act of violence committed against you is justified. And someone could safeguard themselves as much as possible and still be violated.

Some things we suggest doing to help protect yourself are to:
- Avoid dangerous situations

- Trust your intuition
- Be aware of your surrounding
- Stay in groups when going out
- Always have a DSP (designated sober person)
- Carry your cell phone at all times
- Watch your drink carefully, and don’t drink from it after leaving it unattended

For more information on how to protect yourself you can visit Unite for Change.

But what do you suggest? How can people take an active role in personal safety and how can we deviate from a culture rampant with victim blaming practices?

Teachers having sex with students

After all these years you would think we would no longer be naive about so many things. I suppose, more than anything it is because we are optimists. Although it is no longer shocking, we are still surprised by sexual relations between students and teachers. The fact that is perhaps most disturbing is that a lot folks think it is no big deal. Especially if the victim is a boy and his rapist a woman. Gender should not play a role in identifying the severity of this breech of trust and abuse of power.

So that brings us to Alabama where the group, Citizens for Better Education want to make this crime more serious than it currently is and we say, right on. Regardless if the child is 15, 17 or even 18 this is rape and should be treated as such. Never is it ok for us to use our power to enter into sexual relations. Not in school, the work place or to coerce our partners. Check out the article and let us know what you think. Also, do you know what the laws is in your state? If it is not adequate what can we do to change them?

xo

K & B



Group wants any teacher-student sex, regardless of age, to be crime
By Lisa Rogers
Times Staff Writer
Published: Friday, May 22, 2009 at 9:09 p.m.
Last Modified: Friday, May 22, 2009 at 10:57 p.m.

An education watch group wants to see the law changed to allow a teacher to be charged with a crime for having a sexual relationship with a student, regardless of the student’s age.Ronald Jackson, executive director of Citizens for Better Education, a nonprofit group that monitors public policy and conducts research, said an adult teacher can be charged with second-degree rape for consensual sex only if the student is 15 years old or younger.He believes the law should be changed so a teacher can be charged with rape if he or she is having a sexual relationship with any student.Jackson calls it the "Sweet 16" loophole and said the bill has failed to move forward in the Legislature."We want to launch a statewide initiative to get that changed," he said.A Gadsden City High teacher and coach was charged Wednesday with second-degree rape after it was discovered he was having a sexual relationship with a student who was 15 years old at the time the relationship began.Nicholas Keith Smith, 26, Southside, was a history teacher and assistant baseball coach at the school.Smith, a non-tenured teacher, is no longer employed with the school system. He already had been given notice his job was not renewed before his arrest.Amanda Alldredge, 31, a teacher who allegedly knew about the relationship, also has been arrested.Alldredge, a tenured biology teacher, was placed on administrative leave for an undetermined period after her arrest Wednesday.She is charged with failure to report child abuse and contributing to the delinquency of a minor, both misdemeanors.Under state law, teachers are among those listed as mandatory reporters of child abuse.If the student Smith allegedly was involved with already had turned 16, he could not have been charged with second-degree rape.District Attorney Jimmie Harp said the offense of second-degree rape is committed if a male over the age of 16 has sex with someone under the age of 16 and there are at least two years’ difference in their ages — even if the sex is consensual.There is no difference, based on an occupation.Jackson said that law should change, and Harp said he agrees."Any time a faculty member has a sexual relationship with a student of any age, it should be a crime and carry stiff consequences," Harp said.Sexual misconduct by school employees in Alabama is a growing problem, Jackson said.Jackson said the law should be changed because a teacher is in a position to give a grade in exchange for sexual favors.Jackson said in one incident in the state, a teacher waited until special education students turned 16 years old before having them engage in sex with each other and with him."He knew he couldn’t be charged with rape if they were 16," Jackson said.Jackson said other states have taken measures to change the law to make it a crime regardless of the student’s age.Harp said Smith also was charged with unlawful possession of obscene material after photos of someone apparently younger than 17 years old were found on Smith’s cell phone. That part of the investigation prompted the FBI to become involved.Harp said the alleged incidents involving Smith and the student happened after school hours at his home and not on the Gadsden City High campus.He said information about the relationship first surfaced May 15, and school officials notified authorities immediately.Jackson said it appears the Gadsden City Board of Education has stepped up and acted appropriately. He said school systems sometimes try to cover up these type of crimes and handle it internally because of a school’s reputation."I think this enhances their reputation," he said.Harp said the investigation is continuing.

Steps to Empower Survivors of Sexual Assault

Believe them - Believe them without question or hesitation is one
of the most important things you can do. Never question a person’s
actions, details of the assault or why they feel the way they do.

Help them explore their options - Empower them! Let them know
they are not alone and remind them of available resources (campus
counselor, campus or community rape crisis center, women’s center,
hospital, police department, etc). It is always up to the survivor to
make choices that will affect their healing process.

Listen to them - Offer your support and time. Let them know they
can talk to you about their experience when they are ready.
Never blame them - Say clearly and with care, “It was not your
fault.” It is important that you help them understand that no matter
what happened, it was not their fault.

Allow them to react - Remember, there are many ways for a survivor
to respond. It is important not to ask a lot of probing questions.
Your presence can reassure the survivor and allow them to work out
their feelings in a safe environment.

Helpful Phrases:
• What do you want to do?
• How do you feel about that?
• Do you want to?
• What would you like?
• What is the best thing that could happen?
• What is the worst thing that could happen?

Phrases to Avoid:
• Analyzing, interpreting: you’re doing that because…
• Dominating or interrupting conversation
• Warning or instructing: If you don’t ____, you will regret it.
• Questioning or grilling: When did it happen,
where did it happen, why did you do that?
• Offering solutions: I think you should____.
• Providing overly positive evaluations: I’m sure you will be fine.

Learn more and get other great tips at http://www.uniteforchange.com/

One of People magazine's "Most Eligible Bachelor's" charged with multiple rapes

Once again the person charged with sexual assault is not some creepy guy in an old van with no windows, in this case it is an attractive lawyer who championed the rights of foster children. One who in addition to professional accolades was honored as one of our country's most desirable men. Read the full article here http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=4098569.

This is why regardless of how wonderful someone seems to be, you can never compromise your safety or the safety of your friends. With spring break right around the corner I wanted to share with you a few must do safety tips. Remember not everything that happens on spring break...stays on spring break. So make sure the only thing you bring home is a tan, great photos and wonderful memories. Let us know if we can help you plan a memorable and safe spring break. Also, Unite for Change (http://www.uniteforchange.com/) is getting a makeover. Check out the new look and loads of updates in the coming weeks.

Peace.

Always-

Becca

Spring Break Safety Tips
Trust your intuition, it is your best defense.
Program the hotel # and address in your phone.
Protect yourself from date rape drugs by watching your drinks.
The 3 D's: Don't drink & swim, drink & drive or drink & hook-up.
Have fun and take care of each other.

WSU student arrested for break-ins

WSU student arrested for sorority break-ins

The Daily Evergreen (Washington State University)

Reports September 17, 2007

Pullman Police said they have one suspect in custody after a woman woke up to two men sexually assaulting her early Thursday morning. WSU student Kyle M. Schott, 23, was arrested early this afternoon. He is facing one count of first degree rape, one count of burglary in the first degree, two counts of residential burglary and one count of attempted burglary, according to a Pullman Police news release. Police are actively pursuing leads to identify two other suspects in the string of burglaries Thursday morning. A woman in her early 20s was asleep in the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority on Monroe Street at about 4:30 a.m. when two men reportedly entered the house and began assaulting her. Pullman Police Cmdr. Chris Tennant said it was sexual assault but didn’t involve intercourse, and the men fled when the woman woke up.

Tennant said the woman was not a Kappa Alpha Theta member, and was sleeping in a individual room while sorority members slept on sleeping porches. The men are also suspects in break-ins at Delta Gamma and Pi Beta Phi sororities at about the same time frame.

There was no sign of forced entry at Kappa Alpha Theta, and Tennant said he thought they may have used the fire escape to enter. It appears to be a random attack, he said.
Police Sgt. Sam Sorem said Thursday evening that residents near Delta Gamma and Pi Beta Phi on Lynden Street gave descriptions of the two men who reportedly broke into the houses. “We’ve had some very commendable citizen involvement from people who live in that area,” Sorem said.

Alpha Gamma Rho President Ryan Lantz and fraternity member Branden Rainer saw the two suspects Wednesday evening, Lantz said. When they heard about the assault the next day, they were frustrated that they hadn't done anything. Rainer thought he recognized one of the suspects as a friend of a friend, so they began investigating on their own, Lantz said. They talked to owners of The Coug and Valhalla and determined the suspect was from the area. Using Facebook, Lantz and Rainer were able to find a picture of Schott who they recognized from Wednesday night. They turned over their information to the police.
"It's something we feel pretty good about," Lantz said.

The first call to the police about the assault came in at 4:48 a.m., initially reported as an attempted rape. The woman was taken to Pullman Regional Hospital. Police collected DNA evidence from the scene, Sorem said.

The second suspect is described as around six feet tall with a muscular build and short blond hair, according to a Pullman Police news release. He is said to have a tattoo of a solid triangle on the back of his neck and an ammunition belt around his right thigh. Police believe there may also have been a third subject involved, who stood guard outside the houses.

As a result of the break-ins, the Greek community is focusing more on safety. Anita Cory, the director of the Center for Fraternity and Sorority Life, sent an e-mail to leaders of Greek houses on Thursday encouraging members to contact the police if there are any suspicious intruders or issues. She also warned that if any organization has participated in “pranks” that involve break-ins, the police will pursue the activity as a real crime.

“No matter the believed situation, we expect and encourage you to contact the Pullman Police Department with any suspicious intruders, issues, etc.,” Cory wrote. “If there is a pattern, the PPD will be best able to identify it quickly and allow you to keep your members and your facility safe.” Cory did not respond to a message left on her office phone Thursday afternoon.
Sorority presidents will meet next Wednesday to discuss safety at their houses, a result of the early morning break-ins, Panhellenic spokeswoman Britni Freiboth said.
“Hopefully what they’re going to do is just use each other’s ideas and make each other safer,” she said.

Sororities and fraternities are among the safest places to live in Pullman, Freiboth said.
Fraternities will also meet sometime soon to see how they could help sororities be safer on the hill, Interfraternity Council spokesman Taylor Worth said. “We will meet to see how the boys can help out,” he said. But immediately, Tennant said residents should take a few minutes to make sure they are secure in their homes. Also, if things look suspicious, do not be afraid to contact the police.

“We encourage people to call in suspicious people and suspicious activity,” he said. “A lot of time people don’t call in stuff because they think we’re busy and we don’t care ... but honestly that’s how we solve a lot of crimes.”