10/31/2026
Content warning: This post discusses sexual violence.
Catalyst stands with Jane Doe and every survivor of sexual violence.
This is a response to the allegations at Cornell University, and a reminder that survivors in our own community deserve be believed and supported.
What is sexual violence?
Sexual violence is any non-consensual act of a sexual nature, including harassment, coercion, touching, and r**e. This includes when someone is incapacitated or unable to consent. It is a choice one person makes to exert power and control over another person and to violate their right to the safety and security of their own body.
What we value:
At Catalyst, we value creating and promoting safe, non-violent environments. Every person deserves to be treated with compassion and dignity when they make the courageous choice to share their experience of sexual violence. So many choose never to disclose their experiences, and we understand why.
Survivors should not be punished, silenced, or met with further harm simply for sharing their truth. The allegations in the lawsuit against Cornell University, and the questions about how they were handled, show what’s at stake when institutional responses fall short.
Who gets believed? Who gets protected?
Misogyny, racism, homophobia, transphobia, and ableism shape the outcomes for many survivors by deciding whose story is doubted and whose safety is an afterthought.
At Catalyst, we are committed to social change. This requires progressive attitudes, education of ourselves and others, and a commitment to maximizing the visibility and voice of victims and survivors of abuse.
Prevention starts with you:
We believe violence can be prevented. That's why we present to high school students about dating abuse and sexual violence, and how to prevent it.
It starts with speaking up, speaking out, and holding ourselves and each other accountable. It's what we teach our children about consent, respect for others, and bodily autonomy.
It's also looking inward to figure out why we may overlook harmful or abusive behavior from our peers, and challenging ourselves to find safe ways to intervene when possible.
This isn't just something that happens in other communities.
Here in Chico, on September 19th, officers were called to the Chico State campus after a report that a student was allegedly sexually assaulted. The case is under investigation.
Source: The Orion, 9/25/26
Butte-Glenn SART Partnership:
Catalyst is proud to be part of the Butte-Glenn Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), a partnership of health care, law enforcement, district attorneys, forensic labs, and community partners working to support survivors of sexual assault.
The SART model aims to help survivors regain control, restore dignity, and improve access to individualized, trauma-informed care. It also promotes accountability for people who cause harm by ensuring accurate evidence collection and clear documentation during interviews and exams. This coordinated approach strengthens the community's overall response to sexual violence while prioritizing survivors' safety, health, and empowerment.
Things to remember if you've been sexually assaulted:
• It is not your fault. Regardless of the circumstances, it is never your fault. You have the right to safety. You deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.
• You are not alone. At Catalyst, our supportive advocates are available 24/7 to listen and assist you however we can, whenever you are ready.
• You have options. You have the power to decide whether to undergo a medical exam, how and if you wish to report the assault, and to what extent you participate in the criminal-legal process. Forensic exams are free and don't require involving law enforcement.
• You deserve healing. Healing from sexual assault takes time and support. Catalyst offers free short-term therapy to help you process your experience.
If someone tells you they've been sexually assaulted:
• Believe them
• Listen without judgment
• Let them decide what happens next
• Share confidential support options, like Catalyst and WellCat Safe Place at Chico State
When you hear about a "Jane Doe" in the news, whether nationally or locally, please don't speculate about their identity. Survivors deserve privacy.
To every "Jane Doe": We see you. We believe you. We stand with you.
Catalyst's hotline is confidential and staffed 24/7: (800) 895-8476
