The Red Zone

The "Red Zone" is widely known as the period of time from the start of the fall semester to Thanksgiving break when students — particularly first-year students — are especially at risk for sexual assault.

The Indiana Daily Student recognizes sexual assault and violence is a persistent and dangerous issue on IU's campus. Through our continued reporting, we hope to make our community aware of such risks and be there to guide those who need them to the necessary resources.

So far this semester, the IDS has covered 14 reported sexual assaults.

Learn More: The ‘Red Zone’: First-year students especially at risk for sexual violence

Learn More: The Education of a Freshman: How freshman navigate the transition into the “best years of their lives” and the Red Zone.

Red Zone Resources: Shatter the Silence

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Sexual Assaults Reported This Semester

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Resources for reporting sexual assault 

If you believe you have experienced sexual assault, you have options. Any IU employee can help you find the appropriate administrator or faculty member to begin the university reporting process. Keep in mind that most IU employees are considered “responsible employees,” meaning they are required to pass along anything shared with them regarding sexual assault to IU’s Title IX coordinator or a deputy Title IX coordinator who may decide to open a university investigation.

If you would like to talk to someone before deciding whether to report, IU has several “confidential employees” with whom you can speak. These employees include those designated as confidential victim advocates within IU’s new Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Victim Advocacy, mental health counselors at Counseling and Psychological Services and employees at the IU Health Center.

Non-university affiliated organizations like the Monroe County Protective Order Assistance Partnership and Middle Way House can also provide resources independent from a university investigation.

If you do not wish to start a police investigation, you should know that reports to the university are rarely referred to campus police. If you would like to pursue an investigation in the criminal justice system, you can file a police report with campus or local police. This starts an investigation independent of IU’s Office of Student Conduct, but you should take note that Indiana University Police often refer their cases to the IU Office of Student Conduct for a simultaneous university investigation.

Call 911 in an emergency.

* Indicates that an office or organization may offer confidential resources to students not wanting to file a criminal or University report. If you are looking to reach out to confidential resources, always be sure to ask someone first if they can provide confidentiality. For more on confidential employees at IU, see IU’s sexual misconduct policy.

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