The takes seriously its responsibility to create a safe environment on campus with zero tolerance for sexual harassment and assault. In support of this commitment, the UH Hilo (OEO) has a new program called Confidential Advocacy and Prevention Education (CAPE), which focuses on strengthening resources, awareness and preventative measures about sexual harassment and assault.
UH Hilo’s commitment to a safe environment is backed by a (PDF) that specifically addresses sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. Unfortunately, the issues of sex assault and gender-based violence are prevalent on college campuses nationwide.
CAPE is headed by Destiny Rodriguez, one of the first students to graduate from UH Hilo with a bachelor of arts in gender and women¡¯s studies. Constantly pursuing her passion, she became an administrative assistant with the campus¡¯s OEO after graduation.
She now serves as a confidential advocate in the OEO, where she works with students, faculty, and staff to help them understand their rights, and the options and resources available to them. Because Rodriguez is a confidential resource, she is not required to report information to university administration.
Advocacy, Rodriguez says, is “making sure that students have a voice. Often times in gender-based violence that voice is taken from them, that power is taken from them, and so, how do we give that back?”
CAPE is hosting a Treasure Hunt on Thursday, April 26, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at the Campus Center Plaza. Participants can learn about healthy relationships and signs of unhealthy relationships. This event is open to all UH Hilo students with a valid student ID. Refreshments, provided by the Student Activities Council, will be offered while supplies last. This event is in collaboration with the Women¡¯s Center.
For more information, .
Read more about CAPE at .
—A by Mikayla Toninato, a junior completing a semester at UH Hilo through the National Student Exchange program