RSVP is a force for prevention. Mary Sue Savage, a national expert on campus sexual violence prevention, said increasing awareness is critical. A comprehensive approach is necessary. Prevention needs to be embedded within the campus culture. Title IX, a comprehensive federal civil rights law enacted in , gave this issue a firm base when it prohibited discrimination on the basis of sex, including all forms of sexual violence, for all institutions receiving federal funding.
The State of California committed more strongly to sexual violence prevention on college campuses by passing AB in September It requires all incoming college students to complete domestic violence and sexual assault prevention training. It funds the prevention program, strengthens victim services, and provides trauma-informed training for staff. Merced College first had to gather its internal support groups to partner with organizations outside of campus.
It includes representatives from campus administration, student equity, student services, campus police, and Merced City Police. Merced College already had a relationship with Valley Crisis Center in Merced, a local organization serving anyone in the county impacted by sexual violence and similar crimes. Castillo is the point person, offering confidential help and advocacy, for students, staff or faculty who have experienced sexual violence.
The second provision required the college to create a mandatory prevention education program RSVP for all incoming students. The grant also requires the school to offer active bystander intervention training. The training helps you understand the many ways you can help. Savage said she was impressed with how warmly the Merced College community embraced the events, and the empathy and depth everyone showed during discussions throughout.
The third requirement of the grant is for campus law enforcement to train on delivering trauma-informed services that are anchored in safety, choice, collaboration, trustworthiness and empowerment. The college will celebrate Denim Day, a national day when allies wear denim in support of survivors, on April You are here:. The OVW grant requires colleges to do three things. Upcoming events. Site Menu. Enroll MC Portal Canvas. Search Submit. About Merced College. Visit Us. Board of Trustees.
