The Sexual Violence Support and Prevention Center at the University of Toronto
In recent years, universities across Canada have been recognizing the importance of addressing sexual violence on campus and providing support to survivors. The University of Toronto (UofT) stands out for its robust approach to tackling this pervasive issue through its Sexual Violence Support and Prevention Center (SVSPC).
Established with the mission of fostering a safe and inclusive campus environment, the SVSPC serves as a cornerstone in the university’s commitment to combatting sexual violence. By providing a wide range of resources and services, the center aims to support survivors, create a culture of consent, and prevent instances of sexual violence within the university community.
Sexual violence can occur in private, in public or online, and among any two or more people regardless of their gender or sexuality. A defining feature of sexual violence is the absence of consent. This means that the behaviour has not been discussed or agreed to by all parties, and that there is at least one person in the situation who has not said yes, either verbally or through physical gestures and behaviour, to the act in question.
Understanding consent is critical to recognizing and addressing sexual violence.
Consent is defined in the University’s Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment as:
“The voluntary agreement of an individual to engage in a sexual act. Consent is positive, active and ongoing, and can be revoked at any time.
Consenting to one act does not mean that consent is given for another activity. Consent is NOT obtained where a person is incapable of consenting – for example, due to intoxication, or where a person is induced to engage in the activity by someone abusing a position of trust, power or authority.”
Understanding consent is an important step in creating a culture of consent on campus. A culture of consent is one where communication and consent are the norm. In such a culture, individuals are respected and not objectified, and have autonomy over their bodies. Incidents of sexual violence are not trivialized. The Quercus module: “Building a Culture of Consent at the University of Toronto: Consent, Communication, and Sexual Violence Prevention Education Module for Students” is intended to teach students about consent and how to incorporate the concept of consent into building healthy boundaries, communication, and consent practices within relationships. It is also intended to teach students about sexual violence, the landscape in which sexual violence occurs, and available on- and off-campus support services for survivors of sexual violence.
Trained staff members are available to provide confidential guidance and assistance to individuals who have experienced sexual assault, harassment, or misconduct. Whether survivors need help navigating reporting options, accessing medical or legal resources, or simply seeking emotional support, the SVSPC offers a compassionate and non-judgmental space where survivors can find the help they need.
Furthermore, the SVSPC plays a crucial role in prevention efforts by organizing educational and community-building initiatives and awareness campaigns to foster a culture of consent and respect. Through workshops, training sessions, and outreach programs, the center engages students, faculty, and staff in meaningful conversations about consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships. By challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours, the SVSPC strives to create a campus environment where sexual violence is not tolerated, and survivors are supported.
In addition to direct support services and prevention efforts, the SVSPC at UofT is actively involved in advocacy and policy development. The center works closely with university administrators, student groups, and community organizations to advocate for systemic changes that address the root causes of sexual violence and improve the university’s response to incidents of misconduct. The SVSPC creates a more just and equitable campus environment for all community members by advocating for survivor-centred policies and practices.
Moreover, the SVSPC recognizes the importance of intersectionality in addressing sexual violence and works to ensure that its services are accessible and inclusive to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Acknowledging that specific communities may face unique barriers to seeking support, the center is committed to providing culturally competent and trauma-informed care to all survivors, regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.
In critiquing the services provided by the University of Toronto Sexual Violence Prevention and Support Centre, the vic affiliated branch of the Pears project, Vic Organization for Information, Care, and Empowerment of Survivors (VOICES), underscores the importance of recognising diverse survivor experiences and needs. While the Center endeavours to offer support, VOICES posits in a statement made to the Strand that, “it is essential to acknowledge that not all survivors may find its resources suitable for their unique circumstances.” The group advocates for informed decision-making, emphasising the significance of individuals understanding the potential implications of engaging with the Centre, particularly concerning potential issues of privacy and consent. This critique prompts a broader conversation about the necessity for survivor-centred approaches within sexual violence prevention and support initiatives. Alternatives such as The PEARS Project and the Toronto Rape Crisis Centre are highlighted by VOICES for their commitment to survivor autonomy, trauma-informed care, and empowerment, offering avenues for those seeking additional forms of support and advocacy.
