Community chimes in on Pat allegations

This letter is a response to the events that transpired and are reported on in The Record article “Reports surface of ‘sex competition’ in Patrick Hall.”

As a survivor of sexual assault during my time at CSB/SJU, it pains me to see something like this happening. I wish I could say I was surprised by the actions of these Johnnies, but unfortunately I am not, because it is a consequence of the toxic culture that exists at SJU.

The two anonymous Bennies in the article mentioned that Johnnies they’ve discussed the issue with claim that Bennies are being “overdramatic” and that it’s “not a big deal.” This is what toxic culture looks like. After my assault, some of the Johnnies who I confided in told me “well you were just drunk,” “have you tried talking to him about it so he can explain?,” and “he’s going through a lot right now.”

They claim it’s just a game. What if a Bennie says no, but that Johnnie needs to add to his tally and doesn’t want to take no for an answer? I ask the Johnnies involved, is rape a game to you?

If you are someone with information about who is involved, please come forward. Coming forward means you are protecting your fellow classmates from being victims of sexual assault. This behavior is predatory, and it will only continue to grow if left unchecked.

There is a casual saying that went around during my time at CSB/SJU, “Johnnies don’t hit Johnnies.” I wish we could say that Johnnies don’t sexually assault, harass and objectify Bennies, but apparently that isn’t true.