Comitta: $1M available to stop college sex assaults

WEST CHESTER » State Sen. Carolyn Comitta, D-19th, of West Chester, reminded colleges, universities, and institutions of higher education that $1 million in total state grant funding is available for programs to prevent and combat sexual assault on campus.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education is currently accepting applications for the It’s On Us PA grant program to support and implement strategies and resources to stop sexual assault on college campuses.

The statewide program, launched by the Wolf administration in 2016, is modeled on the success of the national It’s On Us campaign, an initiative of the Obama-Biden White House. It aims to effectively address and counter the culture of sexual assault on campus by opening a larger conversation about recognizing, identifying, and intervening in situations where consent has not or cannot be given.

“Stopping sexual assault and misconduct on campus starts with sending the message that it is unacceptable and that we all have the responsibility to be part of the solution,” Comitta, who serves on the Senate Education Committee, said. “It’s On US PA grants support campus programs that ensure this message is heard loud and clear — that we all have an important role to play in reframing the conversation on sexual assault, empowering victims, and creating a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment for all.”

The program is accepting applications for grants of up to $30,000 until October 20, 2021. In the past, West Chester University, Cheyney University, Lincoln University, and other post-secondary institutions have received It’s On Us PA grants.

“Pennsylvania’s college and university campuses must be safe places for all students,” said Gov. Wolf. “Sexual assault cannot be tolerated, and we all have a responsibility to promote healthy relationships. My administration created the It’s On Us PA grant program to create pathways to tools and training to change campus culture. This year’s grant funding will continue to support this important work on campuses across the commonwealth.”

“Students deserve safe environments where their academic, social, emotional, and professional opportunities can flourish,” said Education Secretary Dr. Noe Ortega. “I am thankful to Governor Wolf for establishing the It’s On Us PA grant program, and proud of our post-secondary partners for building awareness, developing solutions, and working to help keep people safe from sexual assault.”

Since 2016, the Wolf Administration has awarded over 190 It’s On Us PA grants totaling nearly $5 million to more than 75 post-secondary institutions, including public and private two-year and four-year colleges and universities.

It’s on Us is a statewide campaign that invites education leaders and all Pennsylvanians to be part of the solution to protect students from sexual violence. For more information visit the Department of Education’s website, www. education.pa.gov

Comitta