Title IX clearly states that no one should be discriminated against on the basis of sex or be denied participation or benefits under any type of educational program or other activities. Therefore, it is evident that the onus to avoid sexual assault completely depends on people who commit such acts. Moreover, it is a well-known fact that victims should never be blamed for a sexual harassment incident but they too can take certain measures to avoid the risk of being the victim of such incidents. Below mentioned are some of the strategies recommended by education lawyer for Title IX that you can adopt to keep yourself away from Title IX:
- Keep a check on your behavior: You should carefully monitor your sexual contact with other people and also ensure that you have full consent from the party involved. Moreover, you must also enquire about the boundaries of the other person and respect them at all costs. Furthermore, practice self-awareness and educate yourself about healthy sexual practices.
- Do not get involved in such acts when drunk: Most of the time alcohol is associated with sexual harassment cases, especially during a college party or any other function. Hence, it becomes very important to keep in mind that under the influence of alcohol, you might not have control over your actions and that is why you should avoid getting physical with anyone when you are drunk.
- Stay cautious when online: These days it has become quite easy for criminals to target anyone over social media. Therefore, you need to follow certain protocols when you communicate with a stranger over the Internet. Do not share pictures or other details without fully knowing about the other person.
- Trust your instincts: Whenever you feel uncomfortable with someone’s behavior, do not hesitate to speak up and let the other person know about the discomfort that they are causing. If you do not speak in the first instance, it may boost the confidence of the other person and they may not stop.
- Report such matters to the concerned authorities: If someone is making you uncomfortable, let them know about your boundaries. Even then if someone doesn’t stop, talk to the concerned authorities at the university. Every educational Institute has certain policies regarding Title IX that will not only help you fight against the accused but also keep you safe and secure on campus.