The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence 2024 started on Nov. 25. To learn more about the U of A's response to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and the Options Navigation Network (ONN), which helps survivors (and those who support survivors), I interviewed Deb Eerkes from the Office of the Provost (EDI).
Who are you, and what is your role at the U of A?
I am Deb Eerkes, the lead for SGBV response at the U of A. In my role, I oversee the university's policies, systems and training related to SGBV. While I don't have direct contact with survivors, I work to identify and remove obstacles to ensure that our systems function effectively. My focus is on improving how the university responds to SGBV, making the process more supportive and accessible for those affected.
What is the Options Navigation Network (ONN), and how does it help students?
The ONN assists individuals who are seeking help related to SGBV but aren't sure where to start. It's a group of university units that assist those who have been subjected to SGBV to understand their options and connect them to the services or units they need. Any unit that someone accesses in the ONN will:
- provide an initial, supportive listening ear
- meet disclosers of SGBV with support and empathy
- act as a bridge between those affected by SGBV and the units/services that can support them or provide a desired option
- give an introduction or 'warm hand-off' to the right person/place
The ONN takes survivors through what they need right now, taking the burden of navigation away from survivors and walking them through things.
How can students access the ONN?
Students can access the ONN by visiting uab.ca/onn, where they will find a list of navigation units that are part of the network. Students can go to any one of those units and get consistent information. They can choose any access point and request an appointment without needing to provide additional information. The ONN is also available to staff and can connect those who are supporting survivors with university resources and supports.
What does support through the ONN look like?
Support through the ONN is tailored to the survivor's preferences and needs. Recognizing that repeatedly sharing their story can be harmful, we focus on understanding their current struggles without requiring detailed accounts. Support is available at all U of A campuses; for example, if a student at Campus Saint-Jean (CSJ) needs assistance, we can connect them to services in French. As a student's needs change, they can return to access different services and support. We provide information in the way the survivor prefers, whether that's a general handout for them to think through or a personal e-introduction to a specific service. This survivor-driven approach empowers individuals to access help in a manner that best suits their situation.
Can you tell me more about the Global 16 Days Campaign?
Since 1991, more than 6,000 organizations from approximately 187 countries have participated in the Global 16 Days Campaign. This international initiative aims to raise awareness about SGBV and mobilize efforts to eliminate it.
Are there other resources students should be aware of?
Yes, there are several additional resources available. The U of A Sexual Assault Centre (UASAC) is open for drop-in service five days a week. Beyond the ONN, students can access off-campus organizations such as the Edmonton Sexual Assault Centre and the Saffron Centre in Camrose. Recognizing that SGBV has wide-reaching effects, support is also available for related issues like housing, finance and academics. The ONN can connect students to those supports.
How does this fit into the U of A's response to SGBV?
The ONN is integral in connecting survivors to a variety of supports, with the goal of helping them continue in their programs and succeed both academically and personally. Our primary goal is to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment. Our approach at the U of A has evolved to prioritize the needs of survivors without requiring formal reports. Upon receiving a disclosure, we offer a wide array of options, with a formal complaint being just one pathway. We recognize that each student's needs are unique, so we offer tailored options to support them.
