• Know your sexual intentions and limits. You have the right to say "No" to any unwanted sexual contact. If you are uncertain about what you want, ask the individual to respect your feelings.

• Communicate your limits firmly and directly. If you say "No," say it like you mean it. Don't give mixed messages. Back up your words with a firm tone of voice and clear body language.

• Don't rely on "ESP" to get your message across. Don't assume that your date will automatically know how you feel, or will eventually "get the message" without your having to tell them.

• Be especially careful to communicate your limits and intentions clearly in such situations. Remember that some people think that drinking, dressing provocatively, or going to a their room indicates a willingness to have sex.

• Listen to your gut feelings. If you feel uncomfortable or think you may be at risk, leave the situation immediately and go to a safe place.

• Don't be afraid to "make waves" if you feel threatened. If you feel you are being pressured or coerced into sexual activity against your will, don't hesitate to state your feelings and get out of the situation. Better a few minutes of social awkwardness or embarrassment than the trauma of sexual assault.

• Attend large parties with friends you can trust. Agree to "look out" for one another. Try to leave with a group, rather than alone or with someone you don't know very well.

• Listen carefully. Take the time to hear what they are saying. If you feel the individual is not being direct or is giving you a "mixed message", ask for clarification.

 
• Don't fall for the common stereotype that when someone says "No" they really mean "Yes." "No" means "No." If someone says "No" to sexual contact, believe them and stop.

 
• Remember that date rape is a crime. It is never acceptable to use force in sexual situations, no matter what the circumstances.

 
• Don't make assumptions about a person's behavior. Don't automatically assume that they want to have sex just because they are drinking, dresses provocatively, or agrees to go to your room. Don't assume that just because you have had sex previously they are willing to have sex with you again. Also don't assume that just because they consent to kissing or other sexual intimacies they are willing to have sexual intercourse.

 
• Be aware that having sex with someone who is mentally or physically incapable of giving consent is rape. If you have sex with someone who is drugged, intoxicated, passed out, incapable of saying "No," or unaware of what is happening around them, you may be guilty of rape.

 
• Be especially careful in group situations. Be prepared to resist pressure from friends to participate in violent or criminal acts.

 
• "Get involved" if you believe someone is at risk. If you see someone in trouble at a party or a friend using force or pressure, don't be afraid to intervene. You may save the person from the trauma of sexual assault and your friend from the ordeal of criminal prosecution.

The above Acquaintance Rape information taken from "Prevention Information" published by the Rape Treatment Center, Santa Monica Hospital Medical Center.

Should you need help, Millikin University has many different avenues of support for the community. Should you be the victim of sexual assault, PLEASE call or go to the Security office even if you do not want to report the assault. The Security Department will be able to get a hold of the University counselor should you request to speak with them. If you do not feel comfortable with the Security staff PLEASE talk with your RA or Hall Director.

To find out more about Sexual Assault Awareness, please click here.