Feminism and Fallism in institutions

Abstract

Sexual violence and harassment across South African universities is not a new phenomenon. In recent years, however, incidents of rape, sexual violence, and sexual and gender violations were brought to public attention as part of the Fallist moment. Importantly, sexual violence and harassment also found a place in the agenda of student protests as students began to critically discuss experiences of harassment and violence on campuses. Criticisms included the reactive rather than proactive nature of sexual harassment policies and further problematised the neglect of incorporating victim-centred approaches. The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) is one of the universities that received such criticism, particularly related to the lack of sensitivity, victim-shaming and the absence of a holistic approach when dealing with sexual violence and harassment cases. Drawing on an interview with Jackie Dugard, the first Director of the Gender Equity Office and current co-chair of the Sexual Harassment Advisory Committee at the university, this chapter reflects historically on how Wits has dealt with sexual violence and harassment on campus. Reflecting on Dugard’s experiences in relation to sexual harassment and sexual violence cases at Wits, the chapter presents her thoughts on the Gender Equity Office’s successes and challenges over the years and offers suggestions in trying to deal with sexual violence on campuses.