One in every five women
One in every six men
One in every five women that you encounter on a college campus is statistically likely to be the victim of sexual assault. Now I'm not trying to scare you, but this is a very real issue. Every year, campuses across the United States report and document instances of sexual assault. Whether it be unwanted touching, inappropriate gestures, or rape. It is both unfortunate and alarming that we live in a world that is even capable of generating this type of figure.
But what about the Victims?
What on Earth could these victims possibly do to cope? Yes, they can seek justice and take it to court or campus security, but what does the guarantee? The only thing that this guarantees is the victim having to re-tell their story over and over again, all while hoping that in the end the right amount of people, with the right amount of power, believe them. This is in no way discouraging victims from reporting their instances of sexual assault; however, it is highlighting the fact the victim most often feels they are on their own following this type of accusation. What options do they have?
Restore.
Restore is a program based in Rochester that offers services to victims of sexual assault and others affected by assault and battery. During your Freshman orientation, you were briefly introduced to this wonderful service with 24/7 availability via their hotline: (585) 546-2777. In the bathrooms on campus, you can find posters for Restore that include tear away strips with the hotline's number, free for your taking at any time. Restore offers services to men, women and children. According to the website, Restore offers the following services:
- Crisis intervention for sexual assault survivors and their significant others Short-term counseling (six to eight sessions)
- Support through medical examinations and treatment
- Advocacy and support during interaction with law enforcement
- Court accompaniment Individual consultations with professionals
- Community education programs
- Professional training programs
- Referrals for additional needed services
Restore representatives were on campus for several events last year including Walk a Mile and Students Fight Back, both presented in whole or in part by the Feminist Alliance (formerly Feminist Caucus). Walk A Mile is a mile long walk typically done in high-heels by both men and women in an effort to raise awareness for victims of sexual assault and domestic abuse.
Students Fight Back was an event designed to teach students how to "fight off" aggressors and stand up for themselves.
Even though these events are not something we ask for and we should be taught to respect a person's wants for their body, we live in a society that tolerates this. If you or anyone you know has been the victim of sexual assault or domestic violence, Restore is available 24/7 for any need — no matter how big or small you may perceive. Stay safe, stay respectful, and seek support Fisher Fam!
