A post for our college freshmen
The U.S. Department of Justice released a study that found 1 in 4 women in college will become a victim of rape or an attempted rape before graduation. The Bureau of Justice Statistics also reports that females ages 20 to 24 are at the greatest risk of nonfatal intimate partner violence.
College is a fun time, but it’s important to stay safe. In case you haven’t seen this before, remember your dating bill of rights:
You have the right:
• To always be treated with respect – your partner should see you as an equal.
• To be in a healthy relationship – one that is not controlling, manipulative, or jealous. A healthy relationship involves honesty, trust, and communication.
• To not be hurt physically or emotionally – you should feel safe in the relationship at all times.
• To live abuse-free – abuse is NEVER deserved and is NEVER your fault. Conflicts should be resolved calmly and rationally.
• To refuse affection at anytime – A healthy relationship means both parties agree on sexual decisions.
• To say no to sex – Even if you have had sex before, you have the right to refuse sex for any reason.
• To have friends and activities apart from your boyfriend or girlfriend – Spending time by yourself, with male or female friends, or with family is normal and healthy.
• To end a relationship – You should not be harassed, threatened, or made to feel guilty for ending an unhealthy or healthy relationship. You have the right to end a relationship for any reason you choose.
Get to know your campus and know the resources available to you. Often in orientation, you’ll get an info card with useful numbers- stash it in your wallet or purse. Also it’s not a bad idea to save a local cab number in your phone and be cognizant of local bus stops. Travel in packs and remember your dating bill of rights.
Be safe, be loved & enjoy the start of your semester.
