Sexual Assault
Dear Brooklyn College community,
I have just returned from a campus demonstration organized by students against sexual assault and against a faculty member's offensive blog post about it. There, I heard rousing chants about women's autonomy. "Whatever we wear, wherever we go: Yes means yes and no means no!" I and my senior leadership team at Brooklyn College support this sentiment entirely.
I want to add my personal voice to the chorus of condemnation of the faculty member's blog post. I find his words repugnant to our values as an institution of higher education. His remarks contravene our commitments to diversity, equality, and intellectual respect.
Students have expressed deep concerns about the faculty member's statements and position at the college. We take these concerns seriously. This morning, I met with leadership from student government, as well as student protest organizers, to discuss their concerns and to consider constructive responses we could take together.
To continue the discussion, the Provost and I will host a campus "Speak Out" next week; we will send information to you about when and where shortly. We will also host an interdisciplinary "Teach-In" on these complex issues thereafter. I hope you will join us at these events and continue to make your voices heard.
Yesterday, the Provost issued a statement and provided a link for our community to reflect on these issues. We have received lots of comments and feedback so far. Please keep the reflections coming. We want to know what you are thinking, how you are feeling, and ways we can support one another in these challenging times.
Both local and national events around sexual assault have impacted our community profoundly. We encourage students to take advantage of these resources on campus at no cost.
- Our Personal Counseling Office assists students confidentially with personal issues or problems, including stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and emergencies. Contact Adriana DiMatteo, 0203 James Hall, 718.951.5363.
- The Women's Center provides academic crisis intervention and advocacy to students, as well as referrals to off-campus legal, social, and counseling agencies to support students on a wide range of personal, emotional, and social issues. Contact Sau-fong Au, 227 Ingersoll Hall Extension, 718.951.5777.
- The Title IX Office investigates allegations of sexual misconduct and discrimination. If you, or someone you know, has experienced sexual harassment, gender-based harassment, or sexual violence, please report it to this office. Contact the Title IX Coordinator, 718.951.5000, ext. 6468.
- Brooklyn College Health Clinic is a primary care facility where our students receive evaluation and treatment for acute and chronic medical conditions as well as guidance on practices that promote good health and disease prevention. Contact Ilene Tannenbaum, 114 Roosevelt Hall, 718.951.5580.
- The LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning) Resource Center is both a welcoming space and supportive network for LGBTQIA students, staff, and faculty at Brooklyn College. Contact David McKay, 219-221 Student Center, 718.951.5739.
What I saw at the demonstration this afternoon was inspiring. Our students are passionate, articulate, and committed to equality and justice. They share the core values of this institution, and together, we will make it a stronger and better college for all.
