Standard – Sexual Violence

Everybody has the right to work and study in a secure environment free from any form of sexual violence.

Our goal is to ensure that all members of the College community understand what sexual violence is and know how to respond.

NSCC Housing emphasizes the importance of mutual respect in sexual relationships and fosters an understanding of personal boundaries and the need for clear, informed consent. We encourage students to engage in safe sexual practices, maintain open communication with roommates, and be mindful of their physical and emotional well-being. It also highlights the importance of understanding and respecting the legal framework surrounding sexual activities, including the age of consent and issues related to sexual violence.

Sexual Wellness:

• Sexual wellness involves being mindful and respectful of yourself and others when engaging in sexual activity, and maintaining good physical sexual health practices. It’s important to communicate openly with roommates about boundaries and comfort levels regarding sex, such as the timing, volume, and location of intimate activities. Consider discussing these topics in your roommate agreement to ensure mutual respect. Additionally, always practice safe sex by using barrier methods (e.g., condoms, dental dams, gloves) and ensure regular testing between partners, which can be done at community health clinics. For more support, resources are available through Sexual Health Nova Scotia.

Consent:

• Consent is the foundation of any sexual activity. It means that all individuals freely, actively, and enthusiastically agree to engage in specific sexual acts. Consent must be ongoing, conscious, voluntary, and given without any form of manipulation or coercion. It cannot be implied, assumed, or given by someone who is asleep, unconscious, or unable to make clear decisions due to intoxication or other factors. Consent is non-negotiable – if consent is not present, any sexual activity is considered sexual violence. Consent cannot be obtained through pressure, drugs, alcohol, or force. It is essential to understand the Age of Consent in Canada (typically 16 years old, with exceptions related to positions of trust or authority).

Sexual Violence:

• Sexual violence encompasses any sexual behavior, physical or psychological, that is unwanted, coerced, or occurs without consent. It can happen in a single instance or be ongoing, and it can be perpetrated by someone known to the survivor. Sexual violence can affect individuals of all genders and ages and can take place both in-person or online (e.g., through social media or text). It is important to recognize that sexual violence can be experienced by anyone and should never be tolerated.

Support and Resources:
If you have experienced or need support related to sexual violence, NSCC offers resources to assist you . For additional information on support, visit the NSCC Sexual Violence information and support page.

NSCC has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of sexual violence and is committed to ensuring a safe, supportive environment for all students.

All sexual violence is responded to by the NSCC Sexual Violence Policies and Procedures. All incidents involving  sexual violence  will immediately be classified as Level Three.