Sexual Violence

Southwest Minnesota State University is committed to preventing sexual violence, discrimination, and harassment, and we will respond to reports of sexual misconduct. SMSU fully abides by all state and federal laws, including Title IX and the Minnesota Human Rights Act.

Sexual Violence is defined as a continuum of conduct that includes sexual assault, non-forcible sex acts, dating and relationship violence, stalking, as well as aiding act acts of sexual violence.

1B.3 Sexual Violence Policy

Affirmative Consent 

Affirmative Consent is informed, freely given, and mutually understood willingness to participate in sexual activity that is expressed by clear, unambiguous, and affirmative words or actions. It is the responsibility of the person who wants to engage in sexual activity to ensure that the other person has consented to engage in the sexual activity. Consent must be present throughout the entire sexual activity and can be revoked at any time. If coercion, intimidation, threats, and/or physical force are used, there is no consent. Please click on the policy link above for the complete definition of affirmative consent. 

Dating, Intimate Partner, and Relationship Violence

Dating, intimate partner, and relationship violence is violence that includes physical harm or abuse, and threats of physical harm or abuse, arising out of a personal intimate relationship.

Non-forcible Sex Acts

Non-forcible sex acts include unlawful sexual acts where consent is not relevant, such as sexual contact with an individual under the statutory age of consent, as defined by Minnesota Law.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is an actual, attempted, or threatened sexual act with another person without that person's affirmative consent.

Stalking

Stalking is conduct directed at a specific person that is unwanted, unwelcome, or reciprocated and that would cause reasonable people to fear for their safety or the safety of others or to suffer substantial emotional distress. 

Investigation of Sexual Violence Complaints

The Title IX office, under the Board Policy 1B.3 Sexual Violence, assists students and employees who may be currently experiencing or have experienced a matter relating to sexual violence.

Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation is prohibited by Southwest Minnesota State University.