It’s something we think about a lot and even fear
Especially from a young Black man’s perspective, it's something that we think about a lot and even fear. Like, I remember going to school and, you know, my parents telling me, like, “Watch out for little white girls,” because you might end up, you know, behind bars [agreement from others] for something you never did. So, just that side of things, you know, whatever conversation got to be aware of that. You know, what do I do in that situation?
Recommendations
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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.
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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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Including male students across cultures in discussions of sexual violence, gender stereotypes, and stereotypes of masculinity.
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Address concern around wrongful accusations while developing new policies or training materials.
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Address respondent rights and supports available to respondents in each of the following circumstances: 1) the investigation into the complaint is ongoing 2) the investigation concludes that the respondent has violated the policy, or 3) the investigation does not conclude that the respondent has violated the policy.
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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.
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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.