Although UTM may be one of the safest college campuses in the state, that doesn’t mean students need to let their guard down.
Recently, students received an email from the Office of Public Safety urging students to report suspicious persons and behavior to the campus police. It is also important to remind students that stalking or harassing behavior is a serious and criminal offense.
The Office of Public Safety said in their email that the university defines stalking as any course of conduct directed at a specific person which would cause any reasonable person to fear for the safety of themselves or others, or suffer substantial emotional distress.
Moreover, in the 21st century, stalking and harassment are no longer just the shadowy figure hiding under the window. Technology and social media has allowed stalkers a greater level of access to their victims.
The email also reminded students that declining to give someone your personal contact information or allow others to contact you on social media or by phone is your right.
These days, we are all aware of the dangers that students face when walking alone or at night. We at The Pacer encourage students to take steps to keep themselves safe, whether that be traveling in groups, driving instead of walking, or checking in with friends once you get back to your dorm.
Mitigating stalking and harassing behavior is also a communal effort and requires all members of the campus community not to ignore someone who seems suspicious.
Stay vigilant and stay safe, Skyhawks.
