The Ohio Women’s Public Policy Network Statement: “Dialogue on Sexual Assault Must Encompass Steps Candidates Will Take to Address Problem”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCTOBER 11 , 2016

Contact:  Faith Oltman (419) 366-9393

“While there is great importance in calling out sexual assault for the crimes that they are – rather than excusing comments detailing harassment and assault as ‘locker room banter’ – this is not enough. The conversation on sexual assault during the debate missed a huge opportunity to discuss what real solutions the candidates would supportto address the problem.

“Our elected leaders have a responsibility to enact policy solutions that address the issue of sexual assault through primary prevention and supporting survivors. Ohio lawmakers have taken on this duty by working to advance legislation such as Senate Bill 350, which wouldprovide survivors with legal protections through advocate privilege at rape crisis centers and domestic violence programs.

“Changing the ways in which acts of sexual assault are talked about and viewed by society is an important step in creating safer communities. It is also vital that our lawmakers are dedicated to advancing public policy, like Ohio House Bill 85, to provide sexual violence prevention education K-12; and that our lawmakers commit resources to consent and healthy relationships education, bystander training programs, and allocate funding to improve systems and provide supports for survivors.

“The dialogue from Sunday night’s debate must not stop with calling out comments that normalize sexual violence, but must continue by raising questions to our candidates and lawmakers on what they will do to contribute to efforts to end sexual violence altogether.”