Sexual assault on college campuses is a rampant issue across the country. But the way these issues are handled on campus – by school officials, faculty and students, alike – is just as concerning.

After a Howard University student came out on social media and said she was raped by another student, students took to Twitter and scheduled a public protest where they would stand around a dorm and chant “No means No!”

The #TakeBackTheNightHU evolved from focusing on the one instance to opening up broader discussion about sexual assault on campus, citing how many students could refer to multiple other instances of it.

According to the Washington Post, a Howard representative released a statement about the incident:

Washington, D.C., (March 22, 2016)- Recent tweets have been posted regarding the alleged sexual assault of a Howard University student by another Howard student.   The University administration took immediate action as soon as we learned of this matter.   While we are not able to discuss the specifics of any ongoing investigation, we are and have been actively investigating all reports that have been made to us.  These cases cannot be adjudicated through social media without compromising the integrity of the investigation.

Howard University takes matters of sexual assault very seriously.  As part of our commitment to a safe campus environment, we continue to refine and enhance our Title IX protocols and procedures consistent with best practices and federal regulations. This is further supported with ongoing prevention education, collaboration, training and campus engagement.

It remains to be seen how the iconic historically-Black University will pursue justice for those survivors who have come forward.

 

Photo Credit: Twitter