The purpose of this section is to familiarize the reader with how both SAPAC and the state of Michigan define sexual assault. In addition, it is designed to provide an overview of consent and coercion, two issues that lie at the center of sexual assault. Also, examples of rape myths versus facts are provided. It is imperative that panelists have a complete understanding of definitions, consent, coercion, and rape myths before hearing a sexual violence-related case.
Stalkers come from every walk of life and every socio-economic background. Virtually anyone can be a stalker, just as anyone can be a stalking survivor. There are, however, some general categories that stalkers fit into.
The purpose of this section is to provide an overview of the scope of the problem of dating and domestic violence on college campuses, as well as barriers that may exist for students in accessing resources. It is designed to dispel myths and provide information about the prevalence of these issues so that panelists will be as informed as possible about the reality of these offenses.
The SAPAC Ally Training Program seeks to empower participants with the knowledge, awareness, and skills needed to be actively involved in the movement to end sexual and intimate partner violence. The SAPAC Ally Training Program is a great first step in receiving basic training regarding these issues and becoming a supporter of the movement.
A 2006 study by The American Association of University Women indicates the following:
62% of female college students report having been sexually harassed at their university, with 80% of the reported harassment being peer-to-peer.
51% of male college students admit to sexually harassing someone in college, with 22% admitting to harassing someone often or occasionally.
It is important to acknowledge that statistics do not give a complete picture of the pervasiveness of the problem as most sexual harassment situations go unreported.
SAPAC Volunteer Training is an intensive program of 30 hours spread over a two week period. Volunteer Training will provide participants with in-depth knowledge of issues related to sexual and intimate partner violence as well as specific skills that will be developed throughout your time volunteering with SAPAC. Volunteer Training is a requirement if you are interested in volunteering with the Men's Activism Program, Networking, Publicity, and Activism Program; orPeer Education Program.
The purpose of this section is to provide information about perpetrators. This section will address societal myths, contributing factors to why a person commits rape, the role of alcohol, and studies focusing on college male rapists. It is designed to inform panelists about the reality of this offense so that they are as informed as possible when hearing sexual-violence related cases.
Consent is when someone agrees, gives permission or says yes to sexual activity with someone else. At the heart of consent is the idea that every person, man or woman, has a right to personal sovereignty – not to be acted upon by someone else in a sexual manner unless he or she gives clear permission to do so. It is the responsibility of the person initiating the sexual activity to get this permission. Absence of clear permission means you can’t touch someone, not that you can.
University of Michigan Programs & Initiatives to Address Sexual Assault, Intimate Partner Violence, Stalking, and Sexual Harassment Prevention
2011-2012
The following is a list of programs and initiatives that the University of Michigan is spearheading to prevent sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking, and sexual harassment on the individual, relationship, community, and societal levels.
In Michigan the legal term used for sexual assault or rape is Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC). The following information provides definitions of CSC and the potential consequences. A link to the current legal definitions relating to CSC may be found here. If the perpetrator is charged with one of these crimes, an advocate at the local rape crisis center can help you better understand the charges and the criminal justice process.
It is only a myth in our society that men are not sexually assaulted, or that they are only sexually assaulted in prisons. In fact, 9% of all rape victims outside of criminal institutions are male (U.S. Department of Justice, 1994). Men face unique challenges in dealing with sexual assault. Read more about male survivors here.
Volunteers from SAPAC’s Peer Education Program and University Health Service’s Sexperteam group will be conducting workshops on relationships, sex, and decision making this fall semester for first-year students in residence halls. Participants will have the opportunity to reflect upon personal values, discuss healthy relationships, and practice skills related to consent. If you have questions about Relationship Remix, please contact relationships@umich.edu
Several myths exist about sexual assault. These myths often shift responsibility and blame from the assailant to the victim. Understanding the myths surrounding sexual assault may help you in your recovery. What happened to you was a crime. You are not to blame for the assailant’s behavior.
SAPAC's Peer-led Support Group is a weekly, drop-in and confidential group for survivors to express concerns and find support among peers in a comfortable setting facilitated by student staff.
Tuesday October 25th 6pm-midnight in the League and Mendelssohn Theatre
Enjoy art, music, refreshments, and discussion! Come show your support by ra!s!ng your vo!ce on the issues of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking, and sexual harassment!
The Peer Education program is a student-based SAPAC volunteer program that works to educate the campus community on the issues of sexual violence. We provide educational workshops on the issues of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, and stalking to the University of Michigan community. Peer educators are trained to educate, facilitate discussions, and provide resources for students in residence halls, classrooms, co-ops, sororities, fraternities, and students groups and organizations.
People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, and also as survivors of sexual assault face not only the barriers to seeking help that all survivors face, but also a range of obstacles that are unique to the LGBT community.
