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4 THE OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, August 11, 2000 Thought Check List attacks sexual assault myths By Howard MozeJ OAKVILLE BEAVER STAFF In an effort to dispel some of the more pernicious and painfully entrenched myths about sexual assault, the Halton Rape Crisis Centre (HRCC) has prepared what staff call a Thought Check List Sounds simple enough, but even a quick scan of the list's 12 points will challenge many people's beliefs and their understanding of what remains a destructive societal force. Often this lack of empathy has a direct and neg ative effect on victims when those in a position to help them - from the legal system to family members - fail them. According to HRCC co-director Bev LeFrancois, the initial response to victims is vital to how survivors deal with their assault and whether they begin to heal immediately or are further victimized. "Sexual assault takes their soul, takes their being away," says LeFrancois. With stakes this high, the HRCC plans to distribute the Thought Check List in high schools and among social agencies, police and victim services starting in September. Far too often, says HRCC co director Jacquelyn Schlatman, sup port agencies hear people blaming victims for their abuse with state ments like "She was asking for it," and questions like "What was she wearing?' In short, the victim - not the violence of the crime itself becomes the focus. Unfortunately, Schlatman adds, these beliefs are widespread and deeply embedded, therefore making it vital that everyone in poistions of influence - judges, clergy, coaches, lawyers, educators and police includ ed - give their convictions a collective shake. "We all have to make the system work for victims of crime," said LeFrancois. "Victims suffer so badly because we don't challenge our beliefs." This includes actual and potential perpetrators, since LeFrancois explained that 80% of sexual assault victims know their abusers. The Thought Check List also addresses myths such as "Most women lie about sexual assault," "Sexual assault only occurs when there is a struggle or physical injury," "If a man ... buys a woman dinner or drinks, gives a present or does a favour, she owes him sex," "There is no such thing as a male victim of sex ual assault." The Thought Check List - which was over a year in the making received input from HRCC staff, a Crown Attorney, police, the Halton Violence Prevention Council and oth ers. `They looked at it from all angles," said LeFrancois, who explained that high schools, where HRCC staff give over 150 talks a year, are a natural venue for the list. "We selected any institution that is influential. This power makes them more responsible to dissolve myths." The list was also shown to the Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres and will be made available to any agency that wants it "Anyone can have it," said Schlatman, who will be pleased to provide copies if you call her at 8253622. 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