Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Being sexually harassed at school? Now what?

You may be able to actually smile because at least you can attend school. Arab countries barely allow females to be educated at all and in Afghanistan they throw acid on little girls’ faces when they leave school in the afternoon. Barbarism and ignorance! Talk about a very misguided and unethical culture.
  
While dealing with sexual violence it is important to remember that both the genders are equally vulnerable. It is dangerous to assume that only a particular gender is targeted. Moreover while determining the alternatives that we can take to protect ourselves from being vulnerable we must never assume that a person ‘could have done something to prevent the attack’. This statement actually means that we are blaming the victim. Again, this is what Islam promotes. Remember, it is important to view the harasser as the one to blame.

This is particularly true if the harassment is meted out by someone who is not a stranger. There is simply no way of knowing who nurtures ill intentions and hence there is no formula that can guarantee safety from harassment. Sexual harassment lawyers rightly point out that the victims are often confused at the time the violence is committed against them. 

Reactions vary from person to person. Some become too numb with fear to react while others may fight back by mustering all their strength. However even if a victim chooses not to fight, it must not be assumed that he/she was partly to blame for the harassment.

Only fools do not understand that. But you are not a fool and you have access to this site (Sexual-Harassment-USAttorneys) as does everyone else. The Internet is omnipresent and never closes for business. If you need a sexual harassment lawyer, you are in the right place. Legal help is right around virtual corner.

How to protect yourself from sexual violence on campus

Sexual harassment attorneys believe that if you are in a steady relationship make sure not to leave all decisions to your partner. You must share the responsibility of taking decisions. It is important to be active in a relationship, arrange what to do over the weekend, where to go, or for that matter decide when you would like to be intimate.

Always pay close attention what others are trying to convey to you. If you think you are not getting a clear message ask for clarification.

You must have a clear idea about your own sexual intentions and limitations. You have the right to reject unwanted sexual contact. Just say a big NO and get out of the place or leave the area. It is important that when you refuse a sexual favor you must not give any mixed messages. You must assume a tone and a body language which will be enough to the message across clearly.

If you are an employee of a college or university and have been harassed or discriminated against then make sure to complain to the authorities as stipulated by the institution’s sexual harassment policy.


How to not make yourself vulnerable at a party?

In the opinion of sexual harassment lawyers, most campus harassment happens against women who dress provocatively or drink heavily. Some people somehow assume that such demeanor indicates willingness to engage in sex. If you find yourself in such a situation communicate your intention assertively.

Moreover do not allow others to offer you drinks and beverages in a party. Your drink might be spiked. Do not leave your drink out of your sight. If you are out partying with a group of friends, you must refrain from participating in any act with even the slightest of sexual connotations. Often your friends might try to pressurize you to participate. If you face such a situation try to leave the get-together immediately. While visiting night clubs or parties stick with friends who you can trust. Do not attend parties alone or leave a party with someone you do not know well.

Just watch the original Karate Kid about that. Beach parties do not always go so well.

If you believe you are a victim of on-campus sexual harassment or abuse contact a sexual harassment lawyer ASAP. Schools and colleges are required to take proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment on campus. If you feel that your complaint is not treated seriously by management or you professor then you are entitled to sue the school district, college, or university. 

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