Sexual Misconduct Incident Response “Checklist”
Immediate Emotional Support
If you experience sexual misconduct, often the most important action to take is to find someone who can provide you with emotional support. When you feel listened to and supported it is easier to make other important decisions. In selecting a support person, you may wish to confide in someone who is:
- An active listener
- Easy to confide in
- Non-judgmental
- Respectful of your decisions
- Dependable and available
Advocacy Support
You are also encouraged to speak directly with the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate (SAVA) at 509-526-3032. All discussions with the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate are voluntary and confidential. The SAVA is available to assist you in accessing all campus and community resources and, at your request, will also accompany you to all of these locations.
Medical Attention
A medical exam within 3 days of an incident is crucial to gather evidence, even if you aren’t sure you will want to file a report or press charges. If possible, do not shower, change clothes, or drink before you see a doctor. A medical practitioner can treat injuries, provide emergency contraception and offer medication to prevent sexually transmitted infections. The victim advocate can walk you through this process.
Walla Walla Medical Care: Providence St. Mary Medical Center
401 Poplar Street, Walla Walla, WA 99362
509-897-3320
The Health Center services are voluntary and confidential. The Health Center provides:
- Care for medical and/or psychological injuries
- Referrals for advocacy and support services
- Pregnancy testing, emergency contraception (Plan B)
- Testing for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, and treatment if indicated.
Counseling Services
You may also want to consider taking advantage of counseling services provided by Whitman College. All counseling contacts are voluntary and confidential. Many students who experience sexual misconduct find it extremely helpful to have a safe, empathetic professional to assist them as they work through their feelings and issues regarding the incident.
Reporting the Incident
Finally, you will need to decide if you wish to report the incident to the college and/or the Walla Walla Police Department. Whitman College has a disciplinary hearing process for adjudication of incidents of sexual misconduct. Details of this process can be discussed confidentially with the Sexual Assaut Victim Advocate without filing charges. If you decide to report an incident to the Walla Walla Police Department, the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate can accompany you to make your statement or make arrangements for an officer to come to campus to take your statement, if you wish.