Dear GSAS Students,
Every year, Harvard recognizes an annual event designed to raise awareness and create a campus free of sexual violence. Denim Day, which takes place this Wednesday, April 29, 2020, is a visible demonstration against harmful words and actions that acknowledges the role we each play in holding ourselves accountable to the community. I encourage you to wear denim while you learn, teach, and work remotely on Wednesday and to show your solidarity on social media by using #HarvardWearsDenim.
April also marks the 19th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), the continuation of a long-standing movement dedicated to preventing sexual assault through increased awareness and education. Throughout April, the GSAS Title IX coordinators, Office of Student Services, OSAPR, Arts Fellows, and Public Service Fellows hosted a variety of virtual events, many of which are ongoing and posted on Engage:
Even though we are not physically on campus, I want to emphasize that support, options, and resources are still in place if you or a colleague have concerns about sexual or gender-based harassment—no matter where you are living presently. GSAS Title IX coordinators, the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (OSAPR), the central Title IX Office, and the Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR), continue to provide you with support remotely. You can schedule a Zoom or phone meeting with Danielle Farrell or Seth Avakian, the GSAS Title IX coordinators, or email them directly at farrell@fas.harvard.edu or avakian@fas.harvard.edu.
The social distancing measures brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic can make us all feel isolated. Please know that you are not alone, and that GSAS and Harvard resources stand ready to help.
With all best wishes,
Emma Dench
Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
McLean Professor of Ancient and Modern History and of the Classics
