In recent weeks, an investigation has been opened into Penn State's KDR fraternity, which kept a secret Facebook group in which 144 members shared nonconsensual photos of naked women in compromising and embarrassing positions. Shortly after the photos were revealed, an anonymous KDR member gave an
abhorrent interview defending the fraternity's actions, calling the behavior "minor" and saying the fraternity's conduct was "not anyone else's business, pretty much."
It has been apparent for years that Penn State fosters a rape culture -- a society in which rape and sexual assault/harassment are not taken seriously. The responses of the public and KDR's anonymous member illustrate the Penn State community is not properly educated in matters of consent and sexual assault. The Sandusky scandal also revealed a community that is more adamant on defending its football program than shielding young people from rape and sexual assault.
It's time for Penn State officials and administrators to take a more assertive role in changing this campus' culture. We are a group of alumni who have a stake in the school's reputation, and the well-being of its current students. We do not take it lightly that there are students earning degrees at a world-class institution who do not understand why this behavior is predatory and wrong.
We hereby call on Penn State administrators to implement comprehensive sexual assault education for all students. The program should cover the following:
1. Consent education -- what it is, why it matters, and how to obtain it
2. Bystander intervention -- what to do if you see someone in an unsafe or uncomfortable situation
3. Supporting a survivor -- what do if you a friend or loved one is the victim of sexual assault, harassment, or rape
4. Title IX and Clery Act Rights
Please sign our petition to join Penn State alumni in calling on this school to take active steps to change its culture and to implement mandatory comprehensive sexual assault education for all students! 