Rape case helps educate campus

Several days ago, the verdict was handed down in a rape trial
involving three high school students who broke away from a campus
tour and entered the room of one of our students. The decision of
the court: Jurors acquitted three defendants on counts of forcible
rape while acting with other individuals, and deadlocked on
individual rape charges.

We are writing this as sexual violence educators who care deeply
about the safety of our students.

Currently there are several high-profile cases in the courts. It
has greatly saddened and concerned us to see the treatment
“Jane Does” often endure throughout the country, the
general lack of knowledge about rape and sexual assault, and the
trauma that it brings to the lives of its victims.

We are equally troubled by the stereotypes our culture holds
about what a victim of sexual assault should look and act like
following an assault. Each survivor responds differently. One may
retreat into silence while another may appear outwardly distressed.
There is no “normal” response.

As is often the case, UCLA students are demonstrating their
support for their fellow student, Jane Doe. As of this writing,
over 3,300 students, staff and faculty have logged on to a Web site
named Fight for Justice, Support Jane Doe. We are proud of the
understanding demonstrated in its messages about sexual assault,
consent and the need to end sexual violence. Here are just a few of
its comments:

“Our society has gotten to the point where blaming the
victim is becoming the norm, and it is disgusting.”

“I think it’s fair to say that anyone who
experienced a traumatic event would do whatever it takes to put it
out of their mind and go on with daily activities. … I think
it’s unfortunate that our society still holds the female to
blame when a rape occurs. No one ever says that during a burglary
the victim is just as guilty as the robber because he didn’t
fight. He was simply trying to save his life and get through the
frightening robbery as quickly as possible. Same goes for
Jane.”

“Rape is non-consensual sex. The victim doesn’t have
to say “˜no’ at the time to make it (nonconsensual).
Sexual violence is a crime.”

“Silence does not mean permission was given.”

“Rape isn’t if someone says “˜no,’ it is
if someone doesn’t say “˜yes.'”

“I was living in De Neve (Plaza) while this happened, and
it shook the entire university. These men could have chosen any
dorm room at random.”

“To Jane Doe, please continue to be strong. Your life will
get better. … Everyone at the Rape Treatment Center helped me
immensely. You will get past this.”

“You are loved for your bravery by those you know you and
don’t. Hang in there. Your loved ones will stay by your
side.”

“I believe you, Jane Doe. You have support here at
UCLA.”

“I fully support Jane Doe and admire her courage for
coming forward! I hope that she knows that she is making a positive
impact by speaking out, and it is making a difference.”

The comments of our students, staff, faculty and people from
across the nation who have written in to the Friends of Jane Doe
have given us much to think about as a community.

This verdict has given our community much to debate. But it
would be a great injustice for students, staff or faculty who have
been sexually assaulted to avoid coming forward and reporting their
assault because of the outcome of any individual case. When enough
Jane/John Does come forward, it will force the system to face
prejudice and ignorance in those instances where it exists.

Educating our community on this important topic is a massive
task. Jane Doe is to be commended for her bravery in bringing forth
her allegations, as are all Jane and John Does.

We are a better and stronger community as the result of this
case, regardless of your beliefs about the outcomes. We have all
learned more about sexual assault and the damage it inflicts on
lives. Our campus community needs to continue to pursue its goal of
creating a safe, supportive environment for all members of our
community.

Oakland is the director of the UCLA Center for Women &
Men. Greenstein is the director of university Police Community
Services.