You can reduce your risks.
Everyone is encouraged to make positive choices on the Shenandoah campus, in the Winchester community and wherever one goes. Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of being involved in cases of sexual misconduct.
Do not consume alcohol or drugs to the point of being unable to clearly think.
Do not leave your drink unattended at social functions or public places such as bars. Pour your own beverages, and only accept drinks that come in pre-sealed bottles or containers.
If you do drink, drink responsibly.
Eat a high protein meal before drinking, alternate alcohol beverages with non-alcoholic beverages such as water while you are drinking, and know your alcohol limits.
Know your sexual limitations.
Everyone has the right to say no to any sexual behavior, act or contact. Even if you have said yes to previous sexual acts, you have the right to withdraw consent at any point before or during the sexual activity. Dressing provocatively, flirting and other behaviors do not imply sexual intentions or consent.
Clearly and verbally communicate with your partner your sexual expectations and limitations.
Ask your partner for consent to sexual behaviors. If you do not consent to sexual activity, firmly say 鈥渘o,鈥 and indicate your response with clear body language. If your partner withdraws consent or does not give consent, immediately discontinue sexual contact.
Respect yourself and your partner.
Listen to each other. If there is any confusion or misunderstanding regarding sexual desires and consent, ask for clarification. 鈥淣o鈥 does not mean 鈥測es.鈥 鈥淣o鈥 means 鈥渘o.鈥
Attend social events with people you trust.
Know that the people with whom you go out will support you in a case of an emergency or any uncomfortable situations.
Make arrangements for your own reliable transportation.
Whether it is a designated driver or a taxi, make sure you have a sober ride so you do not have to depend on someone who has been drinking.
Use a buddy system.
Make sure someone knows where you are and when you will return. Take care of each other.
Arrange to meet people for the first time in public or have friends present.
If you are meeting someone new for the first time, make sure to have the initial meeting in a public space or bring a friend with you to the meeting.
Use extreme caution when providing personal information on social websites.
Do not disclose your home address or e-mail address to someone you do not know.
Sex without consent is sexual misconduct.
Use of force, intimidation or coercion is a denial of a person鈥檚 right to freely give his/her consent.聽