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Sexual Assault

What is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is any non-consensual contact or behavior. this includes unwanted touching, sexual coercion, rape or any sexual activity that occurs without freely given consent.

-Consent must be informed, voluntary and can be withdrawn at any time.

SA Myths & Facts:

Consent 101:

Forms of Sexual Assault:

  • Unwanted touching, kissing, or sexual advances
  • Sexual Coercion or manipulation
  • Rape or attempted rape
  • Sexual Harassment (verbal, visual, online)
  • Digital sexual abuse (non-consensual sharing of images, sexting coercion)

Warning Signs/ Red Flags in Relationships:

  • Pressuring or forcing sexual activity
  • Ignoring or dismissing boundaries
  • Using drugs or alcohol to manipulate or coerce
  • Emotional or verbal abuse linked to sexual control

You do not have to report your experience to the University or other legal authorities o get support. Victim Advocates are here for you whether or not you choose to report. The choice is yours.

Support Measures:

  • Counseling & Victim Advocacy: Free & confidential support is available through Project Sister Family Services Sexual Assault Hotline or through ULV CAPS
  • Digital Safety: Guidance on privacy, social media, and protecting online information. Visit for more  information: Digital Safety
  • Boundaries: Strategies to limit contact with the abuser or unsafe individuals.

Reporting Measures:

Sexual Assault Victim Advocates:

  • If you decide to report to Title IX, Campus Safety or Law Enforcement, a sexual assault Victim Advocate can accompany you or give ore information. Victim Advocates are confidential, trained professionals who provide support, guidance, navigate reporting processes and provide access to resources. Communications with sexual assault Victim Advocates are protected under California Law (California Evidence Code 1035.4 and CA Penal Code 679.04), meaning what you share with them stays private and confidential.

Legal Protection:

  • Campus No Contact Order: Title IX can help with “No Contact” orders on campus. Contact Title IX office for details Title IX Office
  • Community Restraining Orders: A Sexual Assault Victim Advocate can help you file a restraining order. For more information, visit: Restraining Order. Or contact Project Sister Family Services.

SART Examinations:

If you or someone you know experiences any form of sexual assault, evidence can help support future investigations or prosecutions. Evidence can be collected through a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE/SART) or preserved in other ways.

  • Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SART/SAFE EXAM)

-Can be done within 120 hours (5 days) after an assault.

-Emergency contraception can be provided within 72 hours (3 days).

-These are performed by specialized nurses to collect DNA and other forensic evidence.

-Types of exams:

    • VAWA Exam: Does not require your immediate police involvement. Contact Project Sister Family Services hotline for more information.
    • Evidentiary Exam: Immediate police involvement. Collected evidence may be used for criminal prosecution.
  • Police Involvement

-File a police report.

-Law Enforcement may schedule a SART exam with a forensic nurse.

-Law Enforcement may arrange transportation and emotional support from a Victim Advocate.

-You can also request a Victim Advocate even if police do not automatically call one.

IMPORTANT:

  • DO NOT attempt at home kits, they are not recommended.
  • DO NOT go to a hospital for a SART exam without contacting a Victim Advocate or law enforcement first.

For more information you can visit: RAINN

Self-Care & Healing:

Healing after harm isn’t one-size-fits all. Some days feel harder than others and that’s okay. Small steps matter. Here are a few ways students often care for themselves:

  • Talk to someone you trust – a friend, counselor, or a victim advocate.
  • Take care of your body – rest, eat, move gently.
  • Do things that calm you – journaling, music, or deep breathing.
  • Set boundaries – step back from people or situations that feel unsafe.

You are not alone. Support is available whenever you need it.

Additional Resources: