Student urges ‘It’s On Us’ campaign to push for zero-tolerance policy

Lincy Pompilus, a University student, urged the Illinois Student Senate to take the “It’s On Us” campaign to the next level by pushing for a zero-tolerance policy in regards to sexual assault.

The Illinois Student Senate prepared for Vice President Joe Biden’s visit by spending its Wednesday meeting commending the work the body has done for the national campaign.

Pompilus, junior in social work, spoke during public comment regarding her own personal experience; she was met with resounding applause.

Pompilus said she was raped Nov. 15, 2013, by her resident adviser in Bousfield Residence Hall, according to an open letter to Chancellor Phyllis Wise that Pompilus circulated through Facebook with 100 shares. Her open letter calls for a stricter policy on the readmission of those found in violation. The University has not issued a formal response to Pompilus’ letter.

Pompilus said she believes the “It’s On Us” campaign, especially in light of Biden’s visit, could be used to promote a zero-tolerance policy at the University for students found in violation of the code of conduct.

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Pompilus said she pursued the protocol in place with the Office for Student Conflict Resolution after her assault. She said she did not report the crime to any police departments, but the offender was found in violation of the code of conduct by the University’s sexual assault panel.

She said he was later allowed to petition to a hearing committee, which resulted in his official readmission to the University.

“I did go through the process. The student was found in violation of the code, only dismissed for a semester and allowed to return,” Pompilus said.

Robin Kaler, campus spokeswoman, said the University’s discipline system strives to provide a process that is “fair and equitable to both victims and respondents.”

“We are in the process of revising our policies and procedures to reflect recent recommendations and regulatory requirements,” Kaler said. “We are considering how to incorporate additional opportunities for victim input. As we do that, we will work with victims and their advocates to provide an opportunity for their voices to be heard.”

Brian Siegel, former student senator and former Illini Media employee, also spoke during the member comment in support of Pompilus’ push for zero-tolerance legislation to strengthen the University’s commitment to the message of the “It’s On Us” campaign.

“I’m here because Lincy’s story is so inspiring,” Siegel said. “It seems like there’s something so fundamentally wrong with the system that a student was found guilty and allowed back into the system. In that regard, I urge this body to try to urge for a zero-tolerance policy. Once you commit that evil, you should not be allowed amongst our student body.”

ISS Vice President-External Matt Hill said he is optimistic about the future of “It’s On Us” regarding legislation and feels it has already made strides on campus.

“For a survivor to feel comfortable enough to come share their personal story in a room filled with student senators and strangers to us, that’s a win,” Hill said. “‘It’s On Us’ is making it OK for people to support survivors and when it comes down to it, that’s what the campaign is about.”

Student Body President Mitch Dickey said Pompilus’ story would not fade away and her issues will be addressed.

“‘It’s On Us’ is the face (of the sexual assault conversation) but there’s a lot of policy conversation going on,” Dickey said. “This will not be the last time her story will be told.”

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