Treat every experience as individual
I think one piece of advice I will have is for them to treat every experience as individual. I wouldn’t want to say it all depends on culture- we are so diverse in a way that you can't use cultural region to try to deal with every situation that comes with a similar description. So, look into everybody’s stories as individuals and focusing on the perspective of the victim and not just like pulling them in a category and trying to deal with it that way.
Recommendations
-
When responding to a disclosure or report of sexual violence involving racially or ethnically marginalized students, provide these students with the choice to work with someone who shares their cultural or racial identity or someone who does not.
-
Use approaches that are trauma informed and survivor-centred.
-
Emphasize the victim's right to decide whether they would like to report the incident after they have disclosed it to the university. Ensure the victim is aware of the formal and informal routes for reporting, including the option of reporting to the police. Clearly communicate any limits to confidentiality.
-
Allow victim/survivors to share their experiences and seek support when they are ready. Offer information about time limits for reporting when applicable.
-
When responding to a disclosure or report of sexual violence, highlight that students have the choice to involve support people of their choice, including friends or family members. Offer to reach out to support people if the student prefers. This applies to the victim/survivor or complainant and respondent.