University Men's Lacrosse Team Signs Anti-Sexual Violence Pledge

Story here. Excerpt:

'Signing a pledge is nothing new for college lacrosse teams. Teams often sign pledges in regards to abstaining from alcohol during the season, but the Brown University men's lacrosse team may have broken new ground by signing a pledge related to preventing sexual violence.

Brown's lacrosse team voluntarily held two programming events this fall with the university's men's health coordinator, Marc Peters, related to sexual assault prevention. Alum and former captain Alex Buckley was inspired and sent the team a sample pledge to sign prior to the season. The team worked with Peters to refine Buckley's pledge and all 39 players signed it in December.

The "Team Up" pledge reads:

I have been made aware of systemic problems of sexual violence on college campuses and elsewhere. These problems include behaviors that are unwanted, not mutually agreed to, lack conscious consent, involve coercion or manipulation by men against women. I realize that there are situations where I can assist those who are at a disadvantage against an aggressor.

Accordingly, I PLEDGE:

• To never use physical force or coercion against women.
• To not joke about situations involving non-consensual physical contact.
• To advocate for the respectful treatment of women.
• To never be complicit in the acts of others that violate this pledge.
• To be on the lookout for warning signs that a non-consensual act is taking place or going to take place.'