Some of you may know that I work at a University office that handles Title IX investigations. Over drinks the other night, some friends and I were having a discussion about a particular case and I just cannot get it out of my mind.
Just like most places on this planet, academia provides many opportunities for certain individuals to take advantage of their status and power to act upon their will without consequence. IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE THIS WAY. If a professor or a dean or an administrator ever makes you feel uncomfortable please please please come forward to the University.
Do not let a professors status within the University intimidate you to keep quiet.
Do not be afraid of coming forward because of his status in academia. It's not worth getting published. It's not worth the recommendation.
Do not justify his actions because of his age and he "doesn't know better".
Do not let other students, members of his lab, teacher's assistants, anyone close to him invalidate your concerns. If you come forward to someone and they don't believe you or tell you it's not a big deal, they are wrong. Please go to your counseling office, or Title Ix investigator if you decide to take action.
If someone comes forward to you with these experiences, provide support! Console them. Listen to them! Support whatever action they decide to take.
Most of all DO NOT share someone's feelings with the professor in question. I can't even believe this is an issue, but when someone comes forward to you it's because they trust you and seek your support. You may want to act as a mediator but sharing with the perpetrator just intimidates the victim further into silence.
You do not have to take action against the perpetrator but just know, Title IX is there to support your education! If you feel uncomfortable going to a class or a lab because of a professors unwanted sexual advances, Title IX can help you! If an incident is affecting your ability to concentrate and work productively, there are places here to support and counsel you. You are not alone.
Just remember, sexual assault is not exclusive to students. Many individuals take advantage of their age, status, and power to sexually harass their students. They are wrong. They need to be stopped.
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