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Dear DU Family,��

Sexual assault and gender violence are simply, inarguably, wrong. Still, perpetrators inflict emotional, physical and social trauma—all too often with no recourse. As a society and as a community, we must and do work to support survivors and prevent future assaults.��

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. I ask that we, DU’s staff, students and faculty, do more than recognize the pain inflicted by sexual assault. I ask that we participate, engage and volunteer—and that we use our voices and actions to create an environment that reflects our values.��

Groups across campus will host programs and events throughout April to empower survivors and educate the broader DU community.��

We’re witnessing a profound sea change in our society’s treatment, and perhaps more importantly, acknowledgment of sexual assault and its insidious consequences. Through #metoo and #timesup, individuals are liberating themselves and society writ large of the burden of shame or silence by sharing their experiences. It’s a job they didn’t ask for and shouldn’t have to do, but their voices are creating a safer, more open future for all of us.��

We should all be part of this movement. Structures that prevent and prosecute sexual assault are critical, but so is a vocal, explicit culture that collectively says, “No more.”��

Sincerely,
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Rebecca Chopp
Chancellor��