TO THE EDITOR:
In response to a letter to the editor published on Feb. 3, I would like to clarify how the University responds to incidents of sexual assault. First, I could not agree more that sexual assault is a serious crime. It is the role of the University in addressing this pressing issue that I wish to clarify. The University strives to immediately connect students to a wide range of support options and we prioritize providing care to each person as they are making decisions about adjudication.
Those who have been sexually assaulted are encouraged to report incidents to police, the University or both. When students come to my office, I share all options with them and I provide them with important contact information. This information is also available at safe.unc.edu. In addition or as an alternative, they may seek assistance from confidential resources. If a student chooses an off-campus service provider, if a student chooses to report a crime to the police, if a student chooses campus-based remedies — we support that student’s choice to pursue some or all of these options.
There are multiple reasons for the University’s involvement in sexual assaults, including the ability to provide interim protective measures such as academic and housing accommodations that law enforcement cannot provide. Further, under Title IX, there are different standards for proving a violation through our grievance system than through a criminal proceeding. The point is that the University provides resources that are part of a larger system of response that is in place to support survivors.
In my short time at UNC, we have accomplished the suggestions presented in the letter to the editor. My colleagues and I have escorted students to police on campus and off. We actively support this reporting option. We have also assisted with securing counseling, medical services and legal remedies. We are committed to helping survivors obtain the support and resources they need.
Ew Quimbaya-Winship
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
