Today Education Secretary Betsy DeVos proposed rule changes to Title IX regarding how colleges handle harassment and assault. Below is a statement from Duke University graduate worker and SEIU Faculty Forward/SEIU Workers United Southern Region Local 27 member, Jessica Gokhberg:
“At a time when survivors are bravely stepping forward about the prevalence of sexual assault, Secretary Betsy DeVos’s actions are a slap in the face. As students, graduate workers and faculty, too many of us face assault, harassment and discrimination on campus. We have worked long and hard to empower survivors who speak out. The Secretary’s proposal isn’t just a step back; it is designed to silence survivors. We will not tolerate this attack.”
Graduate workers across the country have mobilized in opposition to Secretary DeVos’ controversial changes to Title IX. Given their unique situation, in which they often work closely with faculty advisors and supervisors, graduates workers find themselves vulnerable to workplace harassment and assault issues. Based on today’s announcement, they will launch a letter-writing campaign encouraging graduate student workers to submit comments, hold an educational webinar about survivors’ rights on campus and join direct actions across the country.
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