Western, there are many resources available for students to help those who have been through a sexual assault or rape.
CASAS
One of the most valuable resources is the Consultation and Sexual Assault Support (CASAS). CASAS assists students by giving emotional support to make sure students can be successful in their lives while they go through their healing process.
“Violence can happen to anyone and it’s never the survivors fault. Regardless of your identity, all students are welcome, “stated on CASAS website at Western.
CASAS urges students to use their counseling, medical and legal services if you or someone you know has experienced any kind of violence such as sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, hate crimes etc.
Western Students Against Violence/WEAVE
Western Students Against Violence is another on-campus resource. They are partnered with WEAVE (Western Empowerment And Violence Education). WEAVE is committed to ending all forms of violence by encouraging communication, taking action when violence happens and host events such as women’s self-defense classes that raise awareness on campus and the community. This is a safe place for students to discuss current issues and engage in open dialogue about feminism and gender equality.
Erika Bro, president of Western Students Against Violence, says sexual violence affects many people on campus and in the community. “Western Students Against Violence organizes peaceful demonstrations and encourages open discussions to raise awareness, support survivors, address the harms of slut shaming, and stress that sexual violence is never the survivors fault,” says Bro.
Please remember that acts of sexual violence are not always preventable. Most survivors of sexual violence know their perpetrator.
Additionally, there are other resources and reporting options Western offers to students who have experienced acts of violence:
Counseling and Support Resources
- Counseling Center, (360) 650-3164
- Student Health Center, (360) 650-3400
- Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services, (360) 715-1563
Reporting Options
- University Police, (360) 650-3911
- Bellingham Police Department, 911
- Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity & Title IX Coordinator: Sue Guenter
Schlesinger, Old Main
345, (360) 650-3307, Sue.Guenter-Schlesinger@wwu.edu
- Dean of Students Office, (360) 650-3706