What is sexual assault?

Sexual assault includes any intentional, unconsented, unwelcome physical contact or threat thereof of an intimate body part of another person, the sexual organs of another person or any part of another's body with the intent of accomplishing a sexual act.  Forcing or attempting to force another person to engage in sexual activity of any kind without his or her consent is considered sexual assault.  It also includes unwanted, inappropriate disrobing of another person or purposeful exposure of one's genitals to another without consent. 

Sexual assault is governed by Wayne State University Policy 01-5. 

How do I report sexual assault?

If you are the victim of a sexual assault, contact the Wayne State University Police Department (WSUPD) immediately at (313) 577-2222 and seek treatment and/or counseling through your doctor.

Wayne State University encourages everyone to take action against harassment on campus. If a person considers the behavior of others to be unwelcome, he or she should immediately report the behavior to their immediate supervisor or someone in authority (such as a Dean or a Vice President), and contact the Office of Equal Opportunity to file a complaint.               

What are the forms of sexual harassment?

1. Quid Pro Quo  Quid pro quo behavior involves an express or implied demand for sexual favors in exchange for some benefit or to avoid some detriment either in the workplace or in the classroom.
2. Hostile Work Environment  A hostile work environment is one in which unwelcome conduct or communication of a sexual nature creates an intimidating, offensive or disruptive work or academic environment for some members of the campus community.

Can I be terminated for filing a complaint of sexual harassment?

No. Retaliation against an employee or student after he or she has complained about harassment or cooperating in an investigation of harassment is unlawful and can lead to serious consequences.  An act of retaliation against a Complainant or witness in an investigation is a violation of the University's Sexual Harassment Statute, the Non-Discrimination/Affirmative Action Policy and the Discrimination and Harassment Complaint Process.   Any such retaliation constitutes a separate basis for a complaint, even if the initial complaint was found to be unsubstantiated or dismissed.