Last weekend NDSP notified the student body that they are investigating three reports of sexual assault on Notre Dame's campus. These reports brought to light an issue that occurs more often than one might assume, and that yields tragic results. At Notre Dame, we talk about "the Notre Dame family" and we all enjoy the feeling of home that this campus offers each of us. As members of this community, it lies with us to take care of each other and to foster a responsible community in every way we can so that everyone can have the best experience possible. You, as a part of the Notre Dame community, can be vital in preventing sexual assault.
As members of student government, we are continually awestruck by the responsibility and integrity of Notre Dame students. We also know that with a little more vigilance and awareness, many of these saddening instances of sexual assault can be prevented. Unfortunately, the majority of sexual assaults at Notre Dame occur between two students who know each other, usually when one or both parties is under the influence of alcohol. Sexual assault occurs when members of our community hurt others in our community. While this is a daunting fact, it also shows that we can make an impact and can help to improve our community. This is especially true when we attend parties with alcohol. Watch out for your friends and even those you don't know. Please "beND" and be responsible for each other. Be chivalrous and kind, if someone looks overly intoxicated, do your part in making sure they get home safely. Never leave an intoxicated person alone. Also, take care of yourself. Travel in groups and try not to lose your friends. Watch your drinks. Look out for those who look unable to ward off unwanted advances.
If you are interested in other ways that you can protect yourself and your friends, think about attending Active Bystander Training on Sept. 22 from 6-8:30pm. For more information about this event, and about sexual assault, visit grc.nd.edu.
As the Notre Dame family, we are given many blessings, but along with those great blessings come great responsibilities. Enjoy the weekend, "beND" and Go Irish!
Mariah McGrogan
senior
Tim Castellini
senior
Senate's Gender Issues Committee
Sept. 8
