How can we help you?
The population of international students at St. Lawrence College has increased dramatically in recent years. We know international students may have difficulty adjusting to college life due to unique factors such as:
- Language
- Cultural barriers
- Lack of support network in Canada
- Pressures regarding high academic expectations
- Lack of financial resources
- More independence for the first time
- Mental well-being
These factors could lead to an increased potential of being victimized. Research shows that International Students may experience sexual violence at a higher rate than domestic students.
Due to different cultural values and norms, it may also be more difficult for International students to report or understand instances of sexual violence.
St. Lawrence College (SLC) is committed to providing accessible, free, culturally competent, and confidential services to all International students. Part of that commitment is in supporting students who have experienced sexual violence.
What does Sexual Violence mean?
Sexual Violence is defined as “any sexual act or act targeting a person’s sexuality, gender identity or gender expression, whether the act is physical or psychological in nature, that is committed, threatened or attempted against a person without the person’s consent, and includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, indecent exposure, voyeurism and sexual exploitation.”
Examples include:
- Giving unwanted compliments, or gifts
- Repeatedly asking someone on a date, or to be in a relationship, even though they are not interested
- Touching someone in a sexual way, without receiving their consent
Important Points to Remember
A protection order is used by a court to protect a person in a situation involving domestic violence, harassment, stalking or sexual violence. You do not need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to get a protection order. We can assist you with each step of this process.
Working with the SRRO, International Student Department, and the police, we can get these questions answered for your specific case.
If you contact the police to report domestic violence, and your intimate partner is convicted of a crime, they could face removal orders from Canada, depending on their immigration status and the seriousness of the crime. A protection order may be put in place to keep you safe, this means you would not be able to see your boyfriend/girlfriend. It is important to remember that your safety and well-being are the most important, it is not your fault if your partner faces consequences for their actions.
Sexual Violence Support
St. Lawrence College is committed to creating a campus environment that is safe for everyone. St. Lawrence College values respect for all individuals, civility, diversity, dignity, equality, and freedom, and is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe learning, living, social, recreational and working environment. We are also committed to maintaining a campus free of discrimination and harassment, and strive to foster an atmosphere of healthy attitudes and behaviours towards sexuality, sex and gender roles.
All students who experiences or witnesses Sexual Violence have the right to confidentiality and access to campus and community support services. All information and records pertaining to you will be kept confidential and will not be shared with anyone unless you give us permission.
The only exceptions are:
- If you seriously intended to hurt yourself or someone else.
- If you reported an incident of abuse involving someone under the age of 18.
Your contacts for support:
International Office:
- Laura Caldwell, RISIA
International Student Advisor
613-544-5400, ext.1883
LCaldwell@sl.on.ca - Carolina Palmer
International Student Advisor
613-544-5400, ext.1564
CPalmer@sl.on.ca
Student Wellness
- Student Rights and Responsibilities Office
SSRO@sl.on.ca -
613-544-5400 ext. 5504
Room 01230
wellness@sl.on.ca
International Office:
- Jammie Bannon
International Student Advisor
613-345-0660, ext.3373
JBannon@sl.on.ca
Student Wellness:
-
613-345-0660 ext. 3154
Room 100
wellness@sl.on.ca -
Student Rights and Responsibilities Office
SSRO@sl.on.ca
International Office:
- Francine Desnoyers, RISIA
International Student Advisor
613.933.6080, ext.2330
FDesnoyers@sl.on.ca
Student Wellness:
-
613-933-6080 ext. 2709
Room M1460
wellness@sl.on.ca - Student Rights and Responsibilities Office
SSRO@sl.on.ca