SALT LAKE CITY ― Brigham Young University launched a website for people to provide feedback on the school’s sexual assault policy, and is looking into revisions such as an amnesty clause that could give victims immunity from honor code violations committed in the lead-up to a sexual assault.
The Mormon-owned school launched the website Thursday, following the barrage of recent complaints over its practice of opening honor code investigations into students after they report being sexually assaulted.
The website is the first big change since BYU created an advisory council to examine its sexual assault policies a few weeks ago. The group is made up of four faculty members, including assistant nursing professor Julie Valentine.
She said committee members have met about once a week and exchanged emails and phone calls daily.
“We need to develop a culture that supports victims coming forward,” Valentine said.
The committee also plans to bring in outside experts to provide feedback and guidance on BYU’s policy. The committee also plans to look into increasing education for students on such things as how to recognize sexual assault, what consent is and how to talk to someone who confides in you about being assaulted.
The council has already reached out to BYU student and sexual assault survivor Madeline MacDonald to discuss her experiences at the school.
