Proposed change to Advocates not comprehensive
by Jessica Zimmerman and Stephanie Gossett
The Committee on Campus Life (CCL) met with Doug Bennett Wednesday April 22 to hear his plan of action about addressing the need for a Sexual Assault Survivors Advocates program for next year. Unfortunately, after extensive searching we could still not find Doug’s plan in the online Community Documents.
To paraphrase what was said during the meeting, the plan consisted of a three-credit Wellness class coordinated by Andrea Hively-Fernandez, director of residence life — education. The course teaches active listening skills and provides a minimal amount of training for mental health, alcoholism, sexual violence, sexual health and other issues.
The replacement that has been offered for the Advocates Program is in no way a comprehensive solution. There are many concerns that emerge from this plan.
First of all, it is not possible for these issues to be covered meaningfully in one class. They deserve the attention of multiple people and more time to fully comprehend the complexities that accompany each “subject.”
In addition, we worry about the ramifications that go along with classifying sexual assault as a mental health problem. Putting sexual violence in this category places the blame on the survivor; instead, sexual assault should be first and foremost considered a socio-political issue that affects mental health. Doug’s plan should not be seen as filling the need that was met by the Advocates. We believe that it is necessary to continue working for a sustainable and satisfactory solution.
We understand that there are financial issues that stand in the way of hiring new staff, but we believe that there are better ways to resolve the problem created by the impending absence of the Advocates Program.
There must be an alternative that does not violate student confidentiality. We worry that Andrea’s position as a disciplinary figure could compromise the integrity of the program.
We would like to make clear that Andrea’s enthusiasm and willingness to help find a viable solution is very much appreciated. It is also important to recognize and thank CCL and the ad-hoc committee for all the time and effort put into finding the best path forward. We hope that all involved will work together to create a program that more effectively meets the needs of the campus.
Jessica Zimmerman, sophomore human development and social relations major and can be reached at jazimme07@earlham.edu.
Stephanie Gossett, junior African studies major and can be reached at sggosse06@earlham.edu.
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