Discussion List for campus-based and allied personnel working to end gender-based violence on campus.

[Becky Lockwood <>]

Hi Folks.  I have many concerns about encouraging a convicted sex offender to speak about his experience in any public setting and/or encouraging that person to create a Men Can Stop Rape group etc. There are multiple safety and  liability issues that need to be considered.  As professionals who work primarily with survivors, we are not the right people to be assessing whether or not this person can safely interact with a range of communities.

 

The most basic question I have is: did the person seek sex offender treatment and did they complete that treatment?  Treatment for sexual violence needs to be specific and tailored to the circumstances of the offender.

Not only do we have a responsibility not to endanger the community in considering what an appropriate role might be, we have an obligation not to put this young man in a situation that might increase his likelihood of re-offending.

 

 

Becky Lockwood

Associate Director of Counseling and Rape Crisis Services

Center for Women & Community

413.545.5832

 

My pronouns: she, her, hers

 

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This email message, including all attachments, may contain information that is confidential, proprietary, privileged or otherwise protected by law. It is to be viewed only by the intended recipient(s). If you believe that you have received this message in error,please notify the sender immediately by return electronic mail, and please delete it without further review, disclosure, or copying. Your cooperation is appreciated.

 

 

From: Morey, Patricia L [mailto:]
Sent: Thursday, February 04, 2016 9:44 AM
To: Ellen Collier;
Subject: RE: Working with perpetrators

 

Why not refer him to the local incarceration volunteer programs? He might find real meaning in working with individuals who are serving time for such behavior.

 

Patricia L. Morey

Assistant Dean; Director

Women’s Resources Center

217.333.3137

http://www.go.illinois.edu/wrc

 

Note: Privacy may not be guaranteed as email is not a secure means of communication. Concerns regarding confidential matters are best addressed by calling or visiting the Women's Resources Center.

 

 

From: Ellen Collier []
Sent: Thursday, February 04, 2016 8:00 AM
To:
Subject: Working with perpetrators

 

Good morning all,

I have recently had a perpetrator (who was found guilty in the criminal system) approach me about wanting to "do something".  He wants to be able to contribute to addressing gender-based violence and expressed particular interest in wanting to share his story so other men got a "real life" example of toxic masculinity and how that can have such a violent outcome.

As a result of our conversations over the last few months, I do truly believe he wants to do something good, but I am struggling to identity what that "something" might be that does not also place survivors in an unsafe space.  We have a peer education program he applied for, but I could not select him due to his criminal record.  His case is easily looked up on the web and the last thing I want is for someone - anyone - to feel unsafe at one of our events or educational programs.

I supposed what I'm asking is if anyone has any suggestions on how to meaningfully engage this young man that could help with his continued growth while at the same time supporting the movement to end gender-based violence.  Any suggestions you have are appreciated!

Ellen

Ellen Lassiter Collier

Diversity & Community Involvement

Women's Resource Center Coordinator

340M Student Center

734.487.0364