Halloween and Homecoming weekend are a time to have fun and celebrate with friends. However, it’s important to keep in mind that celebrations involving alcohol and other substances can make it easier for problematic behaviors and unwelcome advances to go unnoticed.
Here are a few things to watch out for and bystander tips you can use to help prevent sexual assault.
1. Costumes don’t imply consent
Dressing up is a cherished tradition for many people on Halloween. This tradition can also be infused with problematic stereotypes and negative social attitudes. It’s important to remember that what someone chooses to wear does not give others permission to verbally harass or touch them. Like any other clothing, costumes are not an excuse to bother, harass, assault or take advantage of someone.
Support resources
Resources are available for students who have experienced sexual assault, who want to support friends and survivors, or who want to learn more about sexual assault prevention.
Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for students, grad students, faculty and staff who have experienced a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event, including sexual assault and harassment.
Confidential resource
Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC)
OIEC implements and enforces university policies around sexual assault, intimate partner abuse and stalking, and other forms of sexual misconduct. If you or someone you know at CU has been impacted, reports can be filed online. Anonymously reporting is an option as well.
Don't Ignore It
Explore your options for seeking confidential support, reporting concerns and learning skills for helping others. If something seems off, it probably is—don't ignore it.