For Survivors
Sexual or relationship abuse and violence can take many forms. We want you to know:
- You are not alone. Sexual harassment and violence, relationship abuse, and stalking can happen to anyone.
- You did nothing wrong. You are not to blame for the harm someone else did to you.
- You deserve to be safe and supported.
- You may experience a range of emotions. There is no "right" way to respond to sexual or relationship violence.
- Resources are available for any kind of harassment, abuse, or violence you have experienced.
Next steps
Depending on your circumstances, you may have the following options:
- Get information and support from a confidential advocate or counselor, or from the Program Director for Sexual Health, Advocacy & Relationship Education before you decide what to do next.
- Request supportive measures and accommodations that may help you to feel safer and continue your education.
- Make a report to the college, which will start a Title IX investigation. (Anonymous reports can also be made.)
- File a complaint with the appropriate disciplinary body.
- Report to law enforcement in the jurisdiction where the assault took place. (At Reed, that is the Portland Police Bureau).
- Get a restraining or protective order from a court to keep the offender from contacting you on and off campus, even if you don’t make a police report. Free legal assistance may be available.
Please see Options for Survivors for more information.
All reports of sexual and relationship violence on campus or at college-sponsored events will be investigated by the college as possible Title IX violations. No matter where the incident happened, a complaint can be brought before the appropriate disciplinary body if the behavior may have violated the Discriminatory Harassment and Sexual Misconduct policy. Behavior that is illegal may be reported to law enforcement.