Editor,
As a former GPSA council chair (2012-13), I want to register my support of the Women’s Resource Center and its Sex Week programming.
Back during the search for a permanent WRC director, GPSA sent a resolution in support of Summer Little’s candidacy to the search committee and several administrative offices. Summer has always done everything she can to support student government’s mission of helping all students achieve their full potential.
Those condemning the WRC now, especially those accusing it of objectifying women, seem to have conveniently forgotten its long history of standing against rape culture in stronger terms — including those very words, ‘rape culture’ — than any other campus office has tended to be willing to use. Sex-positive, shame-free sex education goes hand-in-hand with creating a campus culture that does not tolerate sexual violence (another cause for which I’m proud of GPSA’s advocacy, seen most recently in its ongoing promotion of the Start By Believing campaign).
Sex Week promotes a spirit of open communication and not only respect for, but interest in, one’s partner’s wants and needs. This is exactly the sort of thing that can help break down attitudes of entitlement to other people’s bodies. As such, I hope UNM continues to stand by the WRC and its staff.
Sincerely,
Kris Miranda
UNM alumnus
