Discussing Sexual Harassment at Sheldon

Anica Smith page editor

Sexual assault and harassment occurs more often than people would like to think, especially in high schools. This issue is present across the world, including in our very own Sheldon High School. Sophomore Alexandra Kubu said, “I know too many people who have been sexually assaulted at Sheldon and we can’t keep ignoring the problem.” She included the fact that the victims she knows of are all girls. Elaborating, she thinks the problem at Sheldon isn’t dealt with as effectively as it could be, particularly pointing out that there hasn’t been serious consequences given to those responsible for assault or harassment. Junior Ulises Ruiz Lopez stated, “I would like the administration to respond to the issue immediately because if we don’t do anything about it immediately, it could get more out of hand and keep happening, and it would just get worse and worse.” The issue of sexual violence is not something that can continue to be brushed aside, especially in a high school setting. About one in six women are victims of an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime and for men, it’s about one in thirty-three, making it undeniable that women experience more sexual violence than men, at least based on given reports. But is there a reason why so many women are targets of sexual violence? Kubu stated, “Girls are especially seen and viewed, and unconsciously viewed as weaker I guess, so people can think it’s easier to take advantage of them.” Likewise, senior Kenna Drews expanded on the issue of targeting girls at our school, stating, “...there’s a lot of sexualizing of women and girls by a lot of the guys here. I hear guys calling girls names and cat calling them in the hallways.”

Unfortunately, the stigma and stereotypes that surround sexual assault and harassment are unavoidable. What we learn, hear, and talk about, not just at school, but in our households, with friends and family, social media, etc., is having a huge impact on our views of crucial issues in the world. This can make it difficult to address and discuss the seriousness of sexual violence, but providing more education on the topic could be helpful. Ruiz Lopez voiced that, “...we need to get more educated on the topic because it’s a big issue going on in general, around the world.” Talking more about Erin’s Law, consent, and just sexual violence in general throughout the school year could possibly help break the stigma revolving around assault and harassment and help to raise more awareness.

Sheldon as a whole, including the staff and student body, should strive to create a safe environment for