Academic Freedom Reporting 1 . Fear of reprisal is the most important barrier to reporting sexual harassment. Because of economic and academic dependency, students fear their future is in jeopardy if they complain. Physical safety is also an important concern in some situations. The University is thus obligated to take appropriate measures to protect you from reprisals if you make a complaint.
Students are often embarrassed and humiliated to be involved in sexual harassment incidents.
They feel that reporting it will draw attention to their sex rather than to their academic identity. They resent the additional invasion of privacy. Speaking out against sexual harassment can empower you and help you distance yourself more comfortably from these emotionally disturbing events. Students fear they will be labelled as troublemakers in their Department if they complain. Note that the Policy Statement referred to previously protects you from reprisals from any party.