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Student Health & Counseling Services (SHCS)

How Can I Help Prevent Sexual Harm?

Sexual Violence Prevention & Advocacy

Every member of the CSUSM community has a role in creating a culture of respect, consent, and safety. Preventing sexual harm is not just about responding when something happens; it's about the everyday choices we make to support one another, challenge harmful behaviors, and build a community where everyone can thrive.
 
Educate yourself about sexual violence.
Be an Cougar UPstander if it's safe for you to intervene. Use these 5 D's of bystander intervention. 
  • Direct - Address the situation directly.
    Example: "They seem uncomfortable. Let's give them space."
  • Distract - Interrupt and redirect the attention.
    Example: Ask them if they are from your class because they look familiar, then ask if they wanto grab some food.
  • Delegate - Get help from others.
    Example: Contact the community advisor, bartender, peer, professor, police or a trusted individual. 
  • Delay -Check in and offer support afterwards.
    Example: "I saw what happened, are you okay? Is there anything you need?"
  • Document - Record what happened safety and respectfully.
    Example: Record from a safe distance or take notes about what you observed and offer the documentation to the affected person.

Every intervention matters. Choose the approach that feels safest for you and the person who may be experiencing harm. If a situation appears unsafe, seek assistance from emergency responders, campus officials or other trusted sources.
Speak out against sexual violence. 

Sexual harm thrives in silence and misinformation. Use your voice to challenge harmful attitudes, support a culture of consent, and promote respect in your community. Speaking out can be as simple as correcting a myth, challenging a harmful joke, or sharing resources with someone who may need support.
Promote accountability and community responsibility.

If someone discloses harmful behavior, challenge myths, encourage them to seek help, and support processes that prioritize survivor safety and community well-being.
Challenge sexist language.
  • Speak up when someone makes degrading jokes.
  • Encourage inclusive and respectful communication.
  • Avoid languge that normalizes coercion.
Challenge traditional gender norms and sexual scripts.

Sexual harm thrives in silence and misinformation. Use your voice to challenge harmful attitudes, support a culture of consent, and promote respect in your community. Speaking out can be as simple as correcting a myth, challenging a harmful joke, or sharing resources with someone who may need support.
Practice digital respect.
  •  Ask before sharing personal information or photos.
  • Respect boundaries in texts and DMs.
  • Do NOT share intimate images without consent.
  • Challenge online harassment.
Support survivors.  
  • Listen without judgement.
  • Believe and validate their experience.  
  • Respect their choices.
  • Connect them with resourcs.
  • To learn more on how to talk to survivors, visit RAINN.org

It's on us to stop sexual harm in our community. Speaking out can help change social norms and promote a culture of respect, consent, and accountability. When you challenge victim-blaming, correct misinformation, or address inappropriate comments, you help create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone.