“Don’t be a rapist” posters appear at university

After three sexual assaults in as many weeks, unofficial posters have appeared on the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus offering advice to the perpetrator or would-be perpetrators. Canada’s national police force, the RCMP, is investigating the incidents in which an unidentified man has attacked three female students.

Women expect safety in public

Women in Canada expect to be able to walk around alone freely without fear, however several university campuses have instituted services whereby students can call for someone to walk with them for safety. Such is the case at the west coast University of British Columbia. As well, police have issued whistles students can use if they are attacked, and they have been given many safety tips.

Some have argued that has put the emphasis on female students to change their behaviour when instead, they should be free to walk without fear.

Posters offer blunt advice

The posters shift the focus on to the perpetrator offering tips such as:

• “Don’t be a creep! Learn how to manage your sex drive.”
• “Make consent part of your approach.”
• “Learn how to deal with rejection.”
• “Recognize that many women are bombarded with sexual interest.”
• “If you slip up, and everyone does, learn how to make amends.”
• “Don’t be a rapist! Someone walking alone is NOT an invitation for you to rape or assault.”

 Posters may make students feel better at least

Not everyone thinks the posters will work on the perp, but they do seem to be a way for students to try to reclaim a sense of safety on campus, said Anisa Mottahed, manager of the university’s Sexual Assault Support Centre.