Commitment to victims remains

News that a student retracted her report of an alleged assault is eliciting a variety of reactions from campus. Some have expressed relief that the assault did not happen, saying they now feel safer. Some have expressed anger, hurt and confusion about why someone would do this. Others have expressed concern about how this may impact Duke’s response to survivors.

First, we must continue to recognize that the majority of sexual assaults are acquaintance assaults. While honoring potential relief in response to the retraction, it is imperative that we continue to address safety issues related to acquaintance assault. And in actuality, this is the type of assault we are most empowered to address—through risk reduction behaviors (e.g. getting clear consent, drinking responsibly) and broader prevention (e.g. addressing sexist comments, challenging rape culture).

Second, it is important to remember that according to federal crime statistics, only two percent of sexual assault reports are estimated to be false, which is similar to the false report rate for other violent crimes. We know in the overwhelming majority of cases, victims are telling the truth. To identify oneself as a survivor involves exposing personal and painful details about yourself and a harmful life experience, and is often met with questions, doubts and lack of support. In fact, the idea of coming forward can be so daunting that sexual assault and rape remain intensely silenced crimes with approximately 80 percent of survivors not reporting to the police and approximately 50 percent never telling anyone.

The Office of Sexual Assault Support Services and the Duke University administration remain profoundly committed to believing and supporting all survivors of violence and encouraging direct survivors as well as their partners, friends and families, to seek the support they need and deserve. Each report will continue to receive the serious and respectful investigation it deserves. And SASS will continue offering prevention, advocacy and support as we have for over a decade. To obtain information or support or request educational programming contact SASS at the Women’s Center (684-3897). Other resources include CAPS (660-1000) and the Durham Crisis Response Center (403-6562).

Jean Leonard, Ph.D.

Sexual Assault Support Services Coordinator