Community Standards

What is it?
Sexual Harassment: unwanted and/or unreasonable behaviours of a sexual nature. This can include direct or indirect words or actions through verbal, physical, visual or other means.
Sexual Assault: any form of unwanted sexual activity that is performed by one person onto another through the use of any object or body part without consent.

What is Consent?
Consent is a voluntary, unimpaired, and conscious choice and agreement between adults to engage in sexual activity. Consent is present if it is:

• Clear: consent is communicated through words that are easily understood as signs of permission
• Coherent: consent cannot be given by people who are under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances. If a person lacks the ability to make a rational and reasonable decision, they are not able to give consent
• Willing: consent is never obtained through manipulation, physical violence or threat, or through an unbalanced power situation
• Ongoing: consent must be gained at each stage of sexual engagement through verbal communication

What is Residence’s process?
If residence staff become aware of a situation that has taken place in or involves students from residence, student life staff will reach out to those involved. Our main priority is the safety and well-being of students and our staff can assist in connecting with supports and resources, as well as offering alternate temporary or permanent living arrangements, when capacity permits. It is important to note that while we are bound to privacy, staff will take all such situations seriously and in consultation with involved and appropriate resources, ensure that safety precautions are taken and the residence disciplinary process is followed.

What are my options if this happens to me?
In the event of an emergency:

• Find a safe place and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
• Contact any of the following emergency services:

Consider reporting options:

• By reporting, you are taking steps towards safety for yourself and your community.
• You are encouraged to report the situation to any of the following services:

 Accessing resources for support:

• The following resources offer free, confidential support:

Safety Information

• Be an upstander: if you see someone in trouble or at risk, call 911 or Protective Services immediately and tell your RA, SRA, and/or coordinator.
• Travel safely: when walking at night, take paths that are lit, travel with a buddy, or use Safewalk (306 966-7233).
• For women, Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) training is available for a small cost through Protective Services and the USSU Women’s Centre welcomes visitors.