As Sexual Assault Awareness Month comes to a close, campus president of It’s On Us, Kirsten McCullough, talked to Her Campus Clemson about the need to know info on sexual assault.
Her Campus: What is It’s On US?
McCullough: It’s On Us is an organization founded by former Vice President Joe Biden to end sexual assault on College campuses. At Clemson, it’s a student group that works to raise awareness of interpersonal violence and serves as a community for those who may be survivors, secondary survivors, or for those who are passionate about the issue.
HC: How does sexual assault affect the campus?
KM: In the United States, ½ women and 1/5 men have experienced some form of sexual violence. This also seems to occur at a higher rate on college campuses. These statistics indicate that students on Clemson’s Campus have experienced sexual assault. Therefore, we need to support survivors in our Clemson family, as well as seek to end violence on our campus.
HC: Why is it important to raise awareness for sexual assault?
KM: It is important to raise awareness because bringing these issues to everyone’s attention allows victims to feel they are able to come forward to share their story. Also, educating the public is an important step to ending these issues. By creating a better understanding of these issues we can create a safer and more welcoming community.
HC: Are there any warning signs to look out for?
KM: Sure, there are warning signs or places where victimization is more common (parties where alcohol and other drugs are available). However, sexual assault can happen anywhere and to anyone. The best advice I have to offer is to intervene when something doesn’t seem quite right. Look out for each other and hold one another accountable.
HC: What’s the best resource in the area for victims of sexual assault?
KM: There are several different resources in the area. On campus, survivors can seek confidential help from CAPS. If they want to report on campus they can talk to Alesia Smith, the Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Access and Equity. If they want to report to law enforcement they can contact CUPD. Some off-campus confidential resources include Pickens County Advocacy Center and Foothills Alliance.
For more information on IT’s On Us or sexual assault awareness, you can reach Kirsten at ksmccul@g.clemson.edu.