Understanding Sexual Violence
To become a campus that nourishes a culture of consent, it is important that we understand the myths and truths about sexual violence and rape culture. When you participate in a workshop, training, or event, you join others in the U of L community who are committed to creating a safer, more respectful campus
Facts about Sexual Violence
Misconceptions about sexual assault are often referred to as "rape myths" although they apply to the broad scope of sexual violence. Myths minimize the seriousness of sexual violence and confuse our understanding of what consent means. Unfortunately, they can also contribute to the social context in which individuals are reluctant to report, blame themselves for what happened, or worry that they won't be believed. Myths can create a climate of victim blaming in which individuals responsible are excused for their actions.
Fact: According to the Criminal Code of Canada, sexual assault is any sexual activity without consent, regardless of whether there are physical injuries or a weapon used.
Fact: Under the Canadian Federal Law, anyone who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol cannot consent to sexual activities.
Fact: Entering into a relationship does not give anyone right or ownership of another person’s body.
Fact: Individuals who are impacted by sexual violence, cope and heal in different ways.
Fact: All people are vulnerable to sexual assault. Anybody of any age, sex, class, race, religion, sexual identity, occupation or physical appearance can be sexually assaulted.
Fact: If someone agrees to engage in one intimate act, that does not mean they agree to everything.
Fact: In Canada, 39% of all Canadian women have experienced at least one incident of sexual assault after the age of 16.
Fact: Sex Workers have the right to give and withhold consent to any sexual activity, and therefore, can be subjected to sexual assault just like anyone else.
Fact: Whether or not someone has had multiple sexual partners, their rights to consent do not change.
Fact: The number of false reports for sexual assault is very low.
For more information, visit Statistics Canada.