I am revved up that crime statistics are falling at SMU thanks to Chief Rick Shafer and the rest of the SMU Police Department’s great work in making our school a safer environment. I would be amiss to forget to appreciate the students, faculty and staff that reported crimes as well.
Because some folks did their part reporting crimes and suspicious behavior to the proper authorities, the rest of us are able to more freely share in the opportunities made available at our school.
But let’s be real for a second. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, “The majority of victims of family violence in Texas were between the ages of 20 and 24.” Furthermore, “batterers between the ages of 20 and 23 accounted for the highest number of family violence incidents in Texas in 2000.” This was out of the 175,000 cases of domestic violence that took place in 2000. We should also remember that it is very likely that more cases go unreported.
These numbers, made available by the Genesis Women’s Shelter of Dallas, do not tell us anything definitive about the context of this university. However, they should alert us to the fact that domestic violence is happening, and it is worth our time and best interest to make sure that it’s not happening here.
“Family Violence” is defined in the Texas Family Code (Section 71.004) as: (1) An act by a member of a family or household against another member of the family or household that is intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault or sexual assault or that is a threat that reasonably places the member in fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, assault or sexual assault, but does not included defensive measures to protect oneself. (2) Abuse by a member of a family or household toward a child of the family or household. Or (3) “Dating Violence” is defined in the Texas Family Code (Section 71.0021) as:
(a) “Dating violence” means an act by an individual that is against another individual with whom that person has or has had a dating relationship and that is intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault or sexual assault or that is a threat that reasonably places the individual in fear of imminent physical harm, bodily injury, assault or sexual assault, but does not include defensive measures to protect oneself.
(b) For the purposes of this title, “dating relationship” means a relationship between individuals who have or have had a continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on consideration of: (1) The length of the relationship, (2) The nature of the relationship, (3) The frequency and type of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship. (c) A casual acquaintanceship or ordinary fraternization in a business or social context does not constitute a “dating relationship” under Subsection “b.”
What are the odds that this is happening in locker rooms, fraternity and sorority houses, residence communities, and in alleys and hallways? I don’t know, you tell me. Better yet here are some of the people who are here to help you and your friends. I have included a few notes beside each to tell you about my experience with them.
SMU Police Department – The SMU Police Department is here to protect and serve. The blue lights you see around campus are not just decorations. If you need a police officer while you are out around campus, do not hesitate to use one. Also, if you have ideas to make your residence area safer, give their administrative office a call. They are here for you.
SMU Chaplain’s Office – I have had the pleasure of working with the Chaplain’s office at a Residential Community Center. They are a great resource for people of faith, no faith and everywhere in between. I especially recommend making an appointment with them if you’re trying to figure out how to navigate the moral and/or spiritual landscape of reporting a possible incident. Their professional and sage advice will help guide you to do the right thing. They are located in a corner on the third floor of the Student Center.
SMU Women’s Center – This is one of the best-kept secrets of SMU. Director Karen Click and staff have created a wonderful safe space on the third floor of Hughes-Trigg for you to share what is going on in your life. Their trained staff will lend a listening ear to your concerns. If you or a friend is looking for help and don’t know what’s available, please consider the Women’s Center. And next time you are in Hughes -Trigg, stop by and familiarize yourself with this great new, safe and totally inclusive space.
SMU Student Affairs – This office is a major node in the university network for information about how to make good decisions on campus. The staff works day in and day out to make this university a place where you can grow and flourish. Also located on the third floor of Hughes Trigg, they will give you the tools necessary to make the best decisions you can for the welfare of you and your loved ones.
SMU Memorial Health Center – Last week I had the pleasure of providing a sexual abuse prevention and self-defense class with Dr. Cathey Soutter for the members of the Morrison-McGinnis Residential Community. I am not exaggerating when I say that her office is an amazing resource for you to get the help and assistance you need to deal with abuse situations.
SMU can be a “home” for you. If you want it to be a safe home, do your part to end domestic violence.
Richard Newton is a student at the Perkins School of Theology. He can be reached for comment at [email protected].
