DEMANDS

Harvard Feminist Coalition’s current demands come from an understanding of the intersections of sexual violence and reproductive injustice, and from the understanding that Harvard cannot prevent sexual violence without a sustained investment in robust, proactive and community-oriented prevention infrastructure.

Sexual violence is a crisis. We do not have all the answers, but we believe these are crucial next steps. Through robust investment and a renewed sense of urgency, Harvard could lead universities in ending sexual violence— instead of facilitating such harm. Our demands to the Harvard administration are below.

  1. ESTABLISH AN INDEPENDENT RAPE CRISIS CENTER.

    With the capabilities of providing direct counseling and advocacy services to survivors, engaging in preventative work, facilitating transformative justice interventions, and holding Harvard accountable for policy and cultural shifts. This center should also provide free legal representation for survivors.

  2. PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH CARE.

    Including increased trauma-informed training for residential and health workers, free Plan B for Harvard affiliates, full access to abortion care through health fees & plans, and removal of barriers to accessing care.

  3. INSTITUTE REAL RECOURSE & TITLE IX REFORM.

    Give workers the right to independent processes to address identity-based discrimination & harassment, mandate independent panelists for Title IX hearings, ensure Title IX rules are as survivor-centric and fair as possible, and increase transparency and oversight of the Title IX/ODR system.

  4. HELP LEAD A CULTURE SHIFT.

    Use platforms like university-wide emails, speeches, and social media to highlight the crisis of sexual violence at Harvard, and actively promote structural and cultural measures that will increase an environment of sexual respect. The University President, Dean of the College, and other high-ranking administrators must be leaders.