As part of the New Student Orientation Program Montana Tech is sponsoring a mock date rape trial August 21st from 2-3 in Tech’s Library Auditorium. This program is titled “Blurred Lines” and the goal is to heighten awareness of the issues and resources surrounding sexual assault, especially on university and college campuses.
The trial will be a shortened version of an actual trial in which a male student is accused of sexual assault by a female student.
Participating in the mock trial event will be three students who will act the roles of the female victim, the male alleged perpetrator and a bystander/witness. Assistant Deputy County Attorney Kelli Fivey, Public Defender, James Reavis and former judge, John Garic, now Highlands College Dean, will be playing their respective roles.
“Adding a bystander is new to the mock trial, which has twice previously been conducted at Tech,” said Dr. John M. Garic, Dean of Highlands College. “We want to highlight how important this role is in creating a culture of safety, care and concern. We have coined a new word, “Frontstander” in heightening the belief that stepping up is a valued and expected behavior of a Montana Tech community member.”
Safe Space and Montana Tech Counselors will be available during the trial. “Students need to know there are resources available to them should an incident occur, not only for reporting, but for advocacy and counseling,” noted Dean of Students, Paul Beatty.
For any further information about this issue or any issue pertaining to Montana Tech or Highlands College, please contact Amanda Badovinac at 406-496-4828 or Dr. John M. Garic at 406-496-3714.