WOMEN’S SAFETY ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES

Many people feel college campuses are unsafe for women, especially freshmen women. These feelings are due to experiences of harassment and assault as well as stigmas presented in the media.

Many parents give their daughters pepper spray or some kind of small weapon to attach to their keychains to keep them safe.

“My parents really did try to make sure I was safe,” said Yadira Arredondo, a Fresno State alumna as she recalls her parents giving her pepper spray her freshman year. “I think they made me aware at school, especially when I thought school was supposed to be a safe place.”

Fresno State police department public information officer Amy Luna says just the act of carrying pepper spray can help students feel safer. “If you have pepper spray in your hand and you’re looking at it, you’re thinking about your safety.” Luna says it is a reminder that you have a tool you can use to defend yourself. She said it is important for students to be aware of their surroundings on their way to class.

Luna said it’s important that “if you see something, say something.” Students walk through the campus daily and are more apt to notice when something seems off or dangerous. Notifying officers about suspicious activity allows them to continue to be proactive when patrolling the campus.

Find out more tips about safety and resources on campus by listening to the podcast.