Our Vision & Philosophy

The Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center (SAPAC) is committed to the belief that all people have the right to live free of violence and the fear of violence. We recognize that sexual assault, stalking, sexual harassment, and intimate partner violence (emotional, physical, and sexual) are not isolated incidents, but rather the individual behavioral expressions of a pervasive cultural attitude that tolerates violence. The common threads that bind these behaviors together are issues of power, control, and inequality.

SAPAC promotes social change and activism on two levels: through the professional services we provide to the University of Michigan community, and through student leadership development wherein students help students as peers.  We believe that people of all identities must work together to eradicate sexual assault, stalking, sexual harassment, and intimate partner violence and that this necessitates activism in many areas, including education, advocacy, crisis-intervention, safety-building, bystander intervention, and policy development. 

We believe that survivors are not to be blamed for the violence perpetrated against them. Thus, we strive to facilitate an empowering, safe atmosphere that helps survivors to help themselves.  SAPAC uses a feminist approach to services. We believe in providing as much information and support as possible to individuals who seek our assistance, and in allowing each person the opportunity to make their own decisions. We perform our services without judgment or bias. Our advocacy is on behalf of the survivor of violence and is guided by and centered on each survivor's needs and choices.  The services and programs we provide focus on the needs of University of Michigan students and their friends and family members, and staff and faculty in the University community. All services are confidential and free of charge.

By maintaining a balance of educating the University community, supporting survivors, initiating proactive change at institutional levels, and furthering campus safety, we hold true to our commitment to keep these issues visible in a way that enhances the University's educational experience for all. SAPAC is fully supported by the University of Michigan Division of Student Life in its commitment to model creative leadership, promote campus civility, and nurture mutual respect based upon the principles and practices of nonviolence.