Before Vera House can encourage students to help prevent sexual and domestic violence, the Syracuse-based organization should help them understand the significance and prevalence of these acts on a college campus.

In Vera House’s 24th annual report, statistics show that domestic and sexual violence remains a serious concern in the city of Syracuse and Onondaga County. There has been an increase in calls, according to recent statistics. There were 18,329 domestic violence calls and 832 sex offense calls answered by the Syracuse Police Department and Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office in 2012.

Fortunately, in its goal sheet for 2013-14, Vera House shared plans to assist local school districts and colleges like Syracuse University in increasing awareness about sexual and domestic violence.

By creating such a connection with local colleges and SU, Vera House has the potential to end or prevent violent behaviors from forming early on.

The connection between Vera House and college students is critical because it helps students become more aware of this violence. Before these students can advocate for the prevention of domestic and sexual violence, they need to become better versed on the topic. Then they will feel confident in their abilities to promote change.

Unfortunately, students often misperceive the prevalence of this type of violence because it is not often publicized by victims and their assailants. Upon learning about these issues, students might feel intimidated by their severity. These are problems that many students likely think they are unable to face. Domestic and sexual violence is a mature issue that students might think they are unable to prevent.

This is why the connection to Vera House is imperative. Students need to become more aware and informed before they can reverse the increase in domestic and sexual violence, and partner with initiatives like the White Ribbon Campaign, the 12 Men Model or the Mentors in Violence Prevention Program offered by Vera House.

Vera House should be applauded for its efforts to face the recent increase in domestic and sexual violence. Now students must educate themselves so they can realize their power to prevent such acts.

 

Published on November 7, 2013 at 1:57 am

Contact: opinion@dailyorange.com