Update 10/3: The UW has reviewed the September 22, 2017 Q&A on Campus Sexual Misconduct issued by the Department of Education and based on that initial review is confident that our student conduct code and policies do not require revision. More information is available here.
Last week, we learned that the U.S. Department of Education plans to revise existing guidelines for protecting students from — and responding to — sexual violence under the gender equity law, Title IX. While we don’t yet know exactly what those changes will be, or how they will be implemented, I want to state clearly that our commitment to preventing violence and to properly investigating and addressing allegations is unwavering.
Campus sexual assault is a real and serious problem that can affect any student. In particular, women aged 18-24 are at an elevated risk, as are those who identify as LGBTQ, and for far too long, institutions and society in general have failed to address the realities of this issue. At the University of Washington, our goal is to prevent sexual assault as well as to address allegations in an equitable and responsive way.
We’ve recently revamped our student conduct process and we’re doubling down on prevention with programs like “It’s on Us” which empowers members of our community to recognize their responsibilities in caring for each other and to act accordingly to prevent sexual assault. Resources are also available for students, faculty and staff seeking support or to report sexual violence:
- The UW Title IX Coordinator is available to answer questions or help with complaint reporting.
- UW victim advocates serve as confidential resources to discuss rights, options and resources.
- Respondent resources provide support and information to students named as respondents in a conduct proceeding.
Regardless of what happens in Washington, D.C., the UW remains committed to creating an environment that prevents sexual violence, supports victims and upholds due process. We will not go backwards.