SEXUAL VIOLENCE PREVENTION, EDUCATION and RESPONSE
Get Support
If you have been impacted by sexual violence, we are here to listen, connect you to resources and help you explore your options. You are not alone. When you choose what you will do next, we are here to support you.
Our support services are free and available for all students, staff and faculty, including people of all genders, sexualities and backgrounds. Support is available no matter when or where the sexual violence occurred. You are not required to file a complaint to seek support.
Connect with the Sexual Violence Response Coordinator
MacEwan University’s Sexual Violence Response Coordinator can provide confidential and non-judgmental support, share information about resources on and off campus, refer you to counselling services, coordinate academic or workplace modifications and help you understand the reporting options available to you. Support is available in-person, via email, over the phone, or via a virtual meeting.
Consider your options
Knowing what to do after experiencing sexual violence can be difficult. Whether your experience of sexual violence happened recently or long ago, you may feel that moving forward is an impossible task. We want you to know that you have options; there are many resources on campus and in the community to support you.
You do not have to face sexual violence alone. You might consider sharing what you’re going through with a friend, family member, co-worker or someone else you trust.
How much or how little you share is up to you, and it’s okay if you’re not ready to talk about the details of your experience. You might simply tell the person that you’re going through something difficult, and let them know what kind of support you need.
If you have been sexually assaulted within the last seven days, consider accessing the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) at any emergency room in Edmonton. A specially trained nurse can conduct a physical exam and, if you want, collect forensic evidence.
SEXUAL ASSAULT RESPONSE TEAM (SART)
The MacEwan University Health Centre (MUHC) provides primary health care to members of the MacEwan University community.
If you are concerned about pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections, consider seeking support from the STI Centre of Edmonton, the YWCA, a medi-centre or a family doctor.
Some people who have been affected by sexual violence may require academic modifications as they continue with their studies.
Modifications are provided to
- Address the impacts of sexual violence and trauma on a person’s ability to succeed in their educational or workplace setting
- Minimize the amount that a survivor must interact with the person(s) who caused or who are causing them harm through acts of sexual violence.
Modifications can be flexible, and could include:
- Withdrawing with cause from a course
- Rescheduling tests, assignments and/or deadlines
- Exam deferrals
- Scheduling and/or attendance options
- Switching sections of a class
Modifications can be accessed through the Sexual Violence Response Coordinator.
Any MacEwan student can access free, confidential counselling at Wellness and Psychological Services. MacEwan Employees can access the Employee Assistance Program.
WELLNESS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
As well, the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton offers a support and information line, available daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and free, trauma-centred individual and group counselling for people of all genders.
There is no right way or wrong way to heal. Everyone's reaction to the experience and trauma of sexual violence is unique. Be gentle with yourself and know that healing from sexual violence can take time.
Consider using these resources to guide your self-care:
As well as seeking support from your family, friends and community professionals, there are support services available to you on campus and in Edmonton and surrounding areas.
