An African Nova Scotian man didn’t write that
Participant 1: For instance, "filing a report directly to the police" [as suggested to survivors in a 2019 SV/SA policy] - it's little things like that, like, if we are speaking from the perspective of an African Nova Scotian man - an African Nova Scotian man didn't write that. You know what I mean? There are certain wordings and things that I feel weren't considered in terms of our perspective. [...]
Facilitator: I think males as a whole would have a whole different perspective on sexual assault, if it were to happen to them. And then African Nova Scotian males, you bring in the whole dynamic of our relationship with police in our community and stuff like that. It kind of brings up a whole can of worms that would make it even more uncomfortable for us to go through this process.
Recommendations
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Engage in activities to develop anti-racism as it pertains to sexual violence prevention and response. Apply anti-racist practices in these areas.
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Engage in activities to develop cultural responsiveness as it pertains to sexual violence prevention and response. Apply culturally responsive practices in these areas.
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Consider how a student's identities might affect their expectations and concerns when accessing supports following a sexual assault, or when involved in a sexual assault investigation.
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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.
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Engage with student leaders from diverse cultural backgrounds and genders when revising policy content and associated services. Ensure the concerns raised by these students are foregrounded in policy development and application.
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Be aware of damaging assumptions about Black and Middle Eastern male sexuality; consider problematizing this form of bias in education and awareness campaigns. In working with students from these demographics in relation to a disclosure or report, demonstrate awareness that such biases exist, and demonstrate intention not to be swayed by such assumptions.