In the recent controversy surrounding the “Cornell 7” case, concerns about sexual violence and institutional accountability have resurfaced. Advocates in Prince Edward Island emphasize the importance of early education on consent and fostering a culture that supports survivors.
A woman known as Jane Doe has accused seven Cornell University students of drugging and sexually assaulting her at a fraternity house in October 2024. She has also alleged that the university shielded the perpetrators.
Danya O’Malley, the executive director of P.E.I. Family Violence Prevention Services, stresses the need to teach children about consent from a young age. One way to do this is by respecting a child’s decision regarding physical contact, offering alternatives like a high five or fist bump instead of a hug.
O’Malley highlights the significance of stopping activities when a child says “stop,” such as tickling or wrestling, to demonstrate respect for their boundaries. As children grow older, discussions should expand to include personal space, possessions, and online conduct, like seeking consent before sharing a friend’s photo.
For teenagers and young adults, O’Malley underscores that consent goes beyond the absence of a “no.” It involves an enthusiastic and continuous “yes.” She introduces the CRISP guideline for consent: Continuous, Reversible, Informed, Specific, and Pressure-free.
Moreover, O’Malley advises parents to talk to teens about the implications of sharing intimate images without consent. Similarly, Jillian Kilfoil, executive director of the P.E.I. Rape and Sexual Assault Centre, expresses the impact of high-profile cases like the Cornell 7 on survivors and the importance of societal efforts to combat sexual violence.
Kilfoil urges institutions to consider both the risks of responding to allegations and the repercussions of not taking action. She emphasizes that patterns of protecting perpetrators and blaming victims exist not only in the U.S. but also in Canada and encourages Islanders to challenge their assumptions and approach others with empathy regarding experiences of sexual violence.
