As the outgoing executive committee of the Religious Directors Association at the University, we speak with one voice to affirm the imperative to end sexual violence in our community.
In speaking out, we recognize the diversity of faith-based communities. However, although we may disagree on strategy, we do not waver in the conviction that sexual violence on campus can be prevented.
We are all responsible for ending sexual violence.
As leaders of faith-based communities, we recognize that religious communities have not always met the challenge of providing a prophetic voice regarding sexual violence. Most tragically, religious communities have been the venue for furthering violence rather than providing safe haven from harm.
So, we acknowledge failures within faith-based communities. Todo less would be to dishonor survivors.
Yet, acknowledgement of wrong is insufficient, as it is not enough to create the new reality of a community without sexual violence.
To be a part of that creative effort, we stand with survivors in our own communities, and we stand in solidarity in the midst of survivors in the broader community.
We call on communities of faith and all persons of conscience to be more active in conversations about sexual violence response and in prevention efforts.
We encourage all students, faculty, administrators and staff to commit to at least one event during Sexual Violence Prevention Week.
Most of all, we encourage everyone to make a decision to do something, to become part of the solution. There is plenty of work to do in this effort. Work for bystanders, for educators, for spiritual leaders, for friends, for volunteers, for advocates, for activists, for administrators and staff.
It is not enough to believe that we can end sexual violence in this community. Far more important are our choices and our actions each day.
Decide to be the difference.
The Rev. Jennifer Martin
The Koinonia Center
Paul Bessemer
OregonHhillel
The Rev. Marisa Tabizon Thompson
Episcopal Campus Ministry
Warren Light
M.div., J.D., The Wesley Center
Letter: Do your part to prevent sexual violence on campus; be aware of conversations, actions
Daily Emerald
April 13, 2011
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