Think Respect.Now.Always. (RNA) is all about Consent Matters?
Guess again. And while we’re immensely proud that over 70,000 students and staff completed Consent Matters since its introduction two years ago, we’re more than an online training module – we’re about shifting attitudes, and changing behaviours towards a campus completely free of sexual violence.
So, what have we been up to lately?
New microsite? Check. Espousing our RNA values? Double check. Winning an award? You bet (although this one’s an added bonus). Read on to get the scoop.
Preparing for next year’s national survey. Universities Australia has postponed the national student survey to September 2021. In the meantime, we’re continuing our efforts to build a greater awareness of RNA, specifically around reporting incidences, finding support and ways to respond.
Here’s an example. Download our Signal for Help step-through guide.
Signal for Help Instagram story for International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, 25 November 2020. Credit: Kat Pereira.
Reaching out (virtually). We recognise that in these challenging times, respect and consent can take different forms, and in response to this, we have launched a new microsite www.respectandconsent.uts.edu.au. This represents a virtual journey that guides you through the importance of consent, and the behaviours, factors and attitudes that contribute to a campus free of sexual violence. Complete a few quiz-style questions, and leave your email to receive an RNA merch bag at the end. Who doesn’t love free merch?
Continuing our focus on the system ‘game changers’. We’ve been engaging with our UTS community on actions and ideas to make UTS a safer, more respectful and equitable place. These co-design sessions have brought out some really exciting concepts, but also some underlying challenges and barriers, which we are seeking to address as part of the process. They’re aligned to our RNA Strategic Framework (skip straight to page 57 to understand our wider goals) and will shape the university’s work in this space.
Checking in with our values. Honesty. Integrity. Authenticity. Transparency. Inclusivity. Respect.
Six values that are woven into our DNA, and lives in everything we do. We recently reality-checked these with you, and you all agreed that these should be the guiding values of Respect.Now.Always.
UTS Engage Instagram story, October 2020. Credit: Kat Pereira.
Winning a Good Design Award. This year, we’ve also been recognised as one of Australia’s most successful design projects for driving societal change, through our Good Design Award (Best in Class). It’s a real treat, shared by our students and staff who have volunteered their time to scoop ice cream, share their experiences and open a dialogue around how we can talk about, and prevent sexual violence.
As we continue to work and study during these times of restriction and isolation, your safety and wellbeing remains paramount. Know your rights, and respond with compassion to any forms of sexual violence. Report an incident, find support, or help a friend.