SEXUAL ASSAULT “The Red Zone”: Fact or Fiction

One in a series of Project Community articles to provide teens and families with information and programs they need before tragedy strikes. This year marks the 40th Anniversary of Project Community in Pelham!

Fact: “There is an increase in rates of sexual assault during the beginning period of a new college school year.”

The “Red Zone” is the time spanning the start of the fall semester through Thanksgiving break when more than 50% of all college sexual assaults are statistically found to occur. The timing of these incidents is not coincidental and coincides with the increase in social gatherings and parties celebrating students’ return to campus. New students can be especially vulnerable, due to their unfamiliarity with the campus and resources and their seeking new social experiences. (American Psychological Association, 2023). For tips on navigating through the “Red Zone,” visit: https://www.nsvrc.org/blogs/5-things- know-about-sexual-health-back-campus.

Fiction: “Consent for sexual activity needs to be obtained only once.”

Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent should be clearly and freely communicated. Consent cannot be given by individuals who are underage, intoxicated or incapacitated by drugs or alcohol, asleep, unconscious, or under any coercion. Unequal power dynamics, such as engaging in sexual activity with an employee or student, also means that consent cannot be freely given. Consent must occur every time and for every type of activity and can be withdrawn at any point. The best way to ensure that all parties are comfortable with any sexual activity is to talk about it, check in periodically, and make sure that everyone involved consents before escalating or changing activities (RAINN, 2025). Angela Kang, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in New York and New Jersey with a private practice in Pelham and a Board Member of Project Community - one of Pelham's leading charitable organizations - is celebrating its 40th Anniversary in being Pelham's only volunteer organization to have healthcare professionals providing visionary programs and solutions for teens, families and a healthy community. Known for its ever-popular COLOR RUN (May 18, 2025), its programs and workshops tackle Binge Drinking, Sexual Assault, Anxiety, Self Awareness, and Project CHILDD and YOU&ME for children, teens and young adults with special needs. Please visit projectcommunity.us