No Longer Silent

Within the past couple of days the Binghamton Student Body has been notified about several allegations of sexual assault regarding Binghamton University students on campus. While this is very alarming and disheartening to hear, The Thurgood Marshall Pre-Law Society would like to take the time to commend all of those who have come out and told their story. Whether being on their own personal platform or anonymously through 3rd party platforms, we as a community stand by the brave victims who felt ready and willing to open up and share their experiences.

The realities of sexual harassment and assault are far to known within College campuses and Universities. One in five women in college experience sexual assault, in addition studies show that students are at the highest risk of sexual assault in the first few months of their first and second semesters in college (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services). With many Colleges and Universities failing to take immediate action on reports of sexual harassment and assault, victims tend to shy away from even making a report to begin with. In addition, prominent rape culture within the media and popular culture has carried on the notion that victims come in a “one size fits all” shape. Stigma and shame is brought on to victims instead of trust and support. Statements such as “She asked for it!” or “Boys will be boys!” continue the cycle of rape culture which is appalling and unacceptable.

Currently the Binghamton Student Body has taken upon themselves to no longer stay silent about their shared experiences. We as a community will empower those who come forward. We believe their testimonies as well as hold those alleged accountable for their actions and take the proper steps to reprimand them accordingly.

To the survivors, we believe you, it is not your fault, we are here for you and we stand by your decisions whatever they may be.

Listed below are resources on and off campus that are meant to help those dealing with the effects of their assault. Whether being counseling or reporting these resources should be freely shared among us all.

University Counseling Center: 607-777-2772

The Counseling Center provides individual and group counseling. The coordinator of sexual assault programs and services can assist with any and all needs. The center’s services are free to students.

University Ombudsman: - 607-777-2388

A resource for students, faculty, and staff when there are disagreements of any kind that require mediation and resolution.

SEEK — SEEK (Support, Empathy, Empowerment, Kindness.) is a student-run service for Binghamton University students to talk through any issue they may be facing from stress, break-ups, grief/loss, or life changes. They are available every night from 8 – 11 p.m. during fall and spring semesters. Call 607-777-4357.

​Crime Victims Assistance Center, Inc. is a safe, welcoming environment for people who have been a victim of, or affected by, a crime. We provide free counseling to survivors as well as a 24 hour crisis line and advocacy program.

24/7 Crisis and Support:

Crisis Line: (607) 722-4256

Text: (607) 725-8196

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800.656.HOPE (800-656-4673)