Care Advocates are a confidential resource for any Pitt student with experiences of identity-based misconduct. After experiencing, witnessing, or being involved with identity-based misconduct, a person can feel overwhelmed and not sure what to do. Through confidential advocacy, students can explore what next steps are best for them with a social worker. There is no one correct response to incidents of identity-based misconduct; simply different options to access support and different reporting options. Care Advocates are here to listen and walk with students through their journey.
Identity-based misconduct includes violence, discrimination, bias, and/or harassment due to someone's gender, sex, disability, race, color, religion, nation of origin, ancestry, genetic information, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Sexual misconduct falls under identity-based misconduct. In an effort to break the cycle of trauma, there is a need for ALL to have access to services; survivors, bystanders, witnesses, and those who have caused harm. Care Advocate services are accessible to all students in these categories.
Services are tailored to meet your unique needs. Care Advocates can assist with:
- Exploring the variety of available options when identity-based misconduct occurs
- Accompaniment as a support person to University meetings and hearings
- Understanding the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX policies and procedures
- Connection to resources that can help reduce negative impacts of trauma
- Navigating University offices, systems, and procedures
- Providing education on healthy relationship practices, how to have open dialogues that build inclusivity, the value of diversity in our community, and more.
