Despite the relative safety of Hanover, Dartmouth College suffers from a social scene that, while entertaining, can prove dangerous to women. Due in large part to the fraternity-dominated culture, Dartmouth women sometimes find themselves in compromising positions, and are taken advantage of more often than most students realize.
The College's reported rates of sexual assault and violence against women are low compared to other universities of similar size. However, no one knows how many instances of sexual assault and abuse go unreported -- many women choose not to report instances of abuse for lack of evidence or for fear of social ostracism.
Dartmouth's "hook-up" culture and the prevalence of alcohol in social settings combine to constitute a dangerous mixture. The potential for sexual assault and abuse rises because most parties occur in male-dominated spaces -- a problem that has no easy or clear solution. There are, however, things we can do as students to ensure a greater degree of safety for women at Dartmouth.
First, dialogue and awareness can help clarify gray areas and bring the issue into the open. Existing programs such as Sexual Abuse Peer Advisor training and the Men's Project further this goal, and should be expanded. A greater emphasis on male education programs would help solve the problem as well. New members of fraternities and sororities should undergo mandatory sexual awareness education as part of pledge term -- a period that may desensitize new members to the severity of sexual crimes.
But individuals must still be responsible for their actions. Both men and women at Dartmouth should take the proper precautions when drinking, and should avoid potentially compromising situations. When Dartmouth students "go out," it is safer to do so in a group. One of the best ways to prevent sexual misconduct is simply to look out for one another.
Only an enduring change in the College's social culture can ensure the safety of all Dartmouth students.
