Coercion
includes conduct, intimidation, and expressed or implied
threats of physical or emotional harm, that would reasonably place an
individual in fear of immediate or future harm and that is employed to
persuade or compel someone to engage in sexual contact. Examples
of coercion include causing the deliberate incapacitation of another
person; conditioning an academic benefit or employment advantage on
submission to the sexual contact; threatening to harm oneself if the other
party does not engage in sexual contact; or threatening to disclose an
individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or other
personal sensitive information if the other party does not engage in the
sexual contact.
Incapacitation
means that the person’s decision-making ability is
impaired such that they lack the capacity to understand the “who,
what, where, why or how” of their sexual interaction. Incapacitation may
result from: sleep or unconsciousness, temporary or permanent mental
or physical disability, involuntary physical restraint, or the influence of
alcohol, drugs, medication, or other substances used to facilitate sexual
misconduct.
The College recognizes the importance of confidentiality. All reasonable
efforts will be made to ensure the confidentiality of information received
to protect the complainant, respondent, and the College community.
If a person requests that their name not be disclosed or that the College
not investigate or take action related to a report of sexual misconduct, the
Title IX Coordinator will determine whether or not such a request can be
honored while still providing a safe and nondiscriminatory environment
for all students, faculty, and staff.
Confidentiality does not apply to minors (under the age of 18). State
mandatory reporting laws require responsible employees report child
neglect and abuse that is suspected, observed, or in some cases, learned
about through a third party, to the local department of social services or
to a local law enforcement agency.
You have options and trained professionals can help you decide your
course of action. The Heartly House 24 Hour Hotline (301.662.8800)
provides an anonymous confidential crisis line that will direct you to the
appropriate resources given your desires on how you wish to proceed.
Confidentiality