Using the 'C' word

This week Canadore College launched a campaign for its stand-alone policy and protocol on sexual assault and sexual violence.

The C-Word campaign is aimed at encouraging students and employees to rethink the meaning of the word consent, relaying the message that you have to “get it or forget it”, says a news release.

Canadore rolled out the campaign to all of its students across all campuses this week during academic orientation, frosh week activities and its Student Life Expo. The effort includes banners placed in high traffic areas, a dedicated web presence, and promotional items like magnets, lapel buttons and rack cards.

Second-year Sport and Recreation student and Canadore Students’ Council Vice President of Student Life, Phoenix McCoy says he couldn’t think of a more important message to get out to the student body.

“The truth of the matter is that sexual violence can happen to literally anyone,” said McCoy. “It doesn’t matter how popular you are, what your background is, where you come from, or whether you are male or female. Everyone is at risk. It’s time to end the silence around sexual violence. There is no reason to be ashamed, and keeping it to yourself is more dangerous than coming forward.”

Fully behind the campaign, McCoy is encouraging students to speak out. He has a vision for real students to share their real experiences to help end the stigma associated with sexual assault reporting. His idea spurred the College to create an online forum for people to be able to share their personal accounts anonymously.