According to the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report released by the Office of Campus Security last month, reported sexual assaults on the Saint Anselm Campus rose last year and continue to be on the rise in this school year.

The report states that in 2012, 2 sexual assault cases were reported. In 2013, this number rose to four. As of this year, the number is known to be rising once again.

Although a low number of assaults were actually reported, national statistics show that the majority of sexual assaults remain unreported, which suggests that the number of assaults on campus may be higher than what is believed.

On college campuses in particular, sexual assaults are often difficult to handle due to the influence of alcohol. College students tend to drink heavily on weekends, which can lead to sexual assaults that may be unclear to the assaulted and the assaulter. The ability to ask for consent and give consent is difficult because of the lack of judgment caused by the consumption of alcohol. The victim may feel uncomfortable with reporting because they realize that they were under the influence. Additionally, the assaulter may not realize that consent was not given.

Dean of Students Alicia Finn assures victims that the consumption of alcohol should not deter them from reporting.

“We’re after the safe environment,” said Dean Finn. “Legislation is pointed so that the victim is safe.”

If someone feels that they have been assaulted under the influence, the college will not punish them for potential underage drinking but will fully address the sexual assault case, according to Dean Finn. Alcohol does not matter; addressing sexual assault does.

Students should not feel that they cannot address sexual assault issues on this campus. Due to the influence of alcohol, it is common for students to feel that sexual assault is unable to be addressed. In general, sexual assault is also a taboo subject that is hard for young people to discuss. Dean Finn encourages students to get involved when it comes to sexual assault and start a conversation.

“We have to talk about it,” she said.

Because we live on a private Catholic campus, many students may feel that topics revolving around sex and assault are uncommonly addressed or even avoided. This is not the case.

“I don’t think it has anything to do with being a Catholic college,” said Dean Finn. “This is about power, this is about putting someone in a vulnerable position. We don’t stand for that.”

Dean Finn also noted that the college has and continues to address issues revolving around sexual assault. In first year halls, Health Services presents a program about sexual assault. The college also presents many awareness campaigns, such as Enough is Enough week and even the Anselmian Respect campaign. These are just a few examples of the ways that the college brings attention to sexual assault and the respect of others. Being a Catholic college doesn’t mean that sexual assault cannot be addressed.

Ultimately, the issue comes down to the students. It is our obligation to respect ourselves and others and recognize that young adults, especially under the influence of alcohol, can be faced with the issue of sexual assault. It is important to recognize that it can happen and it does happen here. In order to create a safer environment for all students at Saint Anselm, it is important to speak up and speak out and overcome the discomfort and confusion of sexual assault. Only then can we eliminate the problem.

If you or anyone you know feels that they have been sexually assaulted, do not be afraid to contact Health Services or the staff of Campus Ministry. They can provide confidential advice while encouraging students to take action against sexual assault. If you would like to report an assault, contact the Office of the Dean of Students. They can provide feedback and assess all sexual assault cases.