Sexual violence broadly describes any violence, physical or psychological, carried out through sexual means or by targeting sexuality. This violence takes different forms including sexual abuse, stalking, sexual harassment and sexual assault.
Sexual violence can happen between people, online, or be part of the environment. Examples of sexual violence include unwanted touching, forced kissing, rape, or forced oral sex. Sexual violence also includes cyber harassment, sexualized exposure using social media, and discrimination based on sex, gender, or orientation.
All members of the NorQuest College community have a right to work and study in an environment that is free from sexual violence. Members of the college community are expected to encourage and support an environment free of sexual violence, and to know about the policy and the procedures for responding to sexual violence.
If you receive a disclosure of sexual violence, it is common to feel uncertain about what to say or do. It is not easy for a person to disclose but remember that a survivor is telling you because they see you as a safe person, you are key in the survivor’s experience.
If someone has experienced sexual violence and approaches you for support, here is how you can help:
Accept “no” as an answer, and avoid giving advice; accepting or refusing assistance must be left up to the individual, except in emergencies when life is in danger.
If you witness sexual violence
If you are a bystander to sexual violence, in any of its forms, your role is to report conduct that is dangerous or does not feel okay.
For many people, the time immediately after experiencing sexual violence can be very confusing. It is common to feel uncertain about what to do and where to turn. The following information can help you find the information and support you may need.
It is important to recognize that you may choose to do nothing and this is also a good option. Remember that every person’s experience is unique and only you know what is right for you.
If you are not sure what to do next and need to understand your options, the following on-campus resources are available to you:
NorQuest Wellness Team (psychologists, social workers, nurses) 780.644.6155 wellness@norquest.ca
Office of Student Judicial Affairs 780.644.6490
NorQuest College Main Campus Security 780.644.6225
In an emergency call 911
Edmonton Police Services 780.423.4567
In non-emergent situations, call Campus Security 780.644.6225
Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) nurse access through Edmonton-area emergency rooms
STI Clinic 780.342.2300
Contact your family doctor
Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton 780.423.4102
Sexual Assault Crisis Line (open 24 hours) 780.423.4121
Saffron Centre 780.449.0900
Talk for Healing (Indigenous women support) 1.855.554.HEAL (4325)
For more resources you can call Edmonton 211 211 or 780.482.4636
Access our list of emergency contacts.
Live outside of Edmonton? Regional Contacts
Location: Room 1-101, Singhmar Centre for Learning Edmonton Campus
Phone: 780.644.6155
Fax: 780.644.6151
Email: wellness@norquest.ca
Monday - Friday 8:15am - 4:30pm Appointments can be made in person or by phone.
Note: Student services are available to all NorQuest students but may not be delivered on site at all campuses.