Swiss universities and research institutions are organizing the second Sexual Harassment Awareness Day (SHAD) on April 25, 2024 to help build a harassment-free university environment. EPFL is taking part in this important event with two forum theater performances, as well as a poster and video campaign.
Sexism and sexual harassment are a reality in the academic landscape. To prevent and deal with sexual harassment in our study and work environments, we need to reflect on our own behavior, in an evolving society, respect the boundaries of others and take responsibility for ourselves and our fellow colleagues, staff, and students. Reacting when witnessing sexism or harassment is however anything but easy. The actions implemented at EPFL aim to provide a few tools.
Events
Theater Forum at EPFL
The play “Coffee Machine” is based on research conducted by Dr. Kléa Faniko at the University of Geneva. It presents scenes of “ordinary sexism” experienced in the academic context, performed by professional actors, and invites specta(c)tors to enter the stage to help the scenario evolve. Two performances are planned, one on April 25th for people without managerial responsibilities and another one on May 2nd for people with managerial responsibilities, so that participants can exchange with their peers.
25 April 2024
Representation reserved for EPFL staff with no managerial responsibilities, including scientific staff (doctoral students, postdocs).
2 May 2024
Representation reserved for EPFL staff with managerial responsibility, including department heads and faculty.
National Campaign
Look at the other Swiss universities’ events and resources, especially the videos that were issued last year with renowned specialists.
Posters
News
“Sexual harassment victims often blame themselves”
On 25 April, Swiss universities will hold their second annual Sexual Harassment Awareness Day – the perfect opportunity for us at EPFL to assess how we’re doing in this area, one year after we introduced a new directive on psychosocial risks.
Contact
Ines Ariceta, Trust and Support Network Lead & the Equal Opportunity Office Team