– Courtesy of Bonnie Beatson
Despite our world changing moment to moment with the impact of COVID-19, WCC continues its commitment to ensuring its campus community is accessing its education and work place in an environment free of sexual harassment and gender-based violence.
Faculty still have an obligation to report any incidents of possible violation within three days. This is to ensure that everyone is safe and free from discrimination even in times when delivery of education is strictly online.
Here are some answers to common questions individuals have had:
Can I still file a complaint even though my classes are all online now?
Yes, you can. You can go to https://report.system.hawaii.edu/student to file a complaint either anonymously or with your UH email. Even if you aren’t sure if your issue is covered under Title IX, you can still complete this online form.
Individuals can also contact the WCC Title IX Office to connect with your Title IX coordinator Karla Silva-Park at (808) 235-7468 or via email at karlas@hawaii.edu.
What if I’m not sure I want to file a complaint? What are my options?
Our confidential resourcesare still available to everyone. Though COVID-19 has required us to find alternate ways of accessing resources, we are still here for you!
Our mental health counselor Desrae Kahale can be reached at dkahale3@hawaii.edu or by calling her office at (808) 235-7393. Desrae is offering both remote and phone counseling as she is able to.
Our DVAC campus survivor advocate Doka Kumagai is also still offering her services. On Mondays and Tuesdays, individuals are to call the DVAC Helpline at (808) 531-3771 or (800) 690-6200. On Wednesdays through Fridays, Doka can be reached at (808) 294-5483 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. She continues to work with individuals through phone, email and by Zoom.
What about my current case? Is it still moving forward?
All current cases continue to move forward. Timing is always the biggest barrier, especially since most investigators are working remotely. Interviews will continue and will be arranged with the parties involved. Should you have any questions or concerns about your current case, please contact the WCC Title IX Office at (808) 235-7468.
What happens if someone is inappropriate in my online class? Does Title IX cover that too?
Title IX covers on-campus, off campus (on a case-by-case basis if not related to a University-sanctioned event) and online platforms. EP 1.204 states: “Any use of the University’s computing and network resources from campus property or a remote location, including but not limited to accessing email accounts, will be deemed to have occurred within the scope of this Policy.”
How do I reach my campus Title IX coordinator? I thought no one was there?
Your Title IX coordinator Karla Silva-Park is working remotely but is accessible via email, phone and by Zoom. Hours of availability are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m to 4:30 p.m. Please reach out at (808) 235-7468 or karlas@hawaii.edu.
