<p>Binghamton University is being investigated by the federal government for suspected mishandling of sexual assaults. It is one of 4 NY schools (55 nationally) in the country suspected of misconduct. Anybody who read the Kaye Report (google Kaye Report, investigation, Binghamton University,SUNY) won't be surprised. The Kaye Report provided the public with a description of egregious conduct by the very people on campus who are charged with responsibility of ensuring that the university complies with the law and ensures people are treated fairly. The misconduct was not limited to sport although the report was. Perhaps this next investigation will reveal other aspects of the misconduct. </p>
<p>The Kaye Report suggests that when the university had a choice of 1) denying, covering-up, damage control, and blaming the victim, or 2) doing the right thing, they steadfastly went for #1. This is the findings of objective investigators.The university has a history of denying allegations out of hand, and failing to investigate or follow university policies regarding grievances- processes that employees and students are entitled to. The Report suggests the officials denigrate those that speak out, and they lie or cover up evidence. After someone with courage speaks out or objects to unethical conduct, a smear campaign follows. Many people have been harmed by the conduct of the very people entrusted to protect civil rights (Affirmative Action Officer, for example). </p>
<p>Officials that don't do the right thing expose those that seek help to more harm. Of all the corruption made public, this one stands to cause the most hardship. Consider the risks involved when an Affirmative Action Officer is motivated to cover up rather than to act on grievances or judiciously investigate in order to make helpful changes. These failure expose vulnerable people to even more hardship. Could the officer have also failed to follow the law for victims of sexual assault? I suppose the investigation will help determine that. I'm not sure if this investigation will also review failures to act on grievances of other civil rights violations. It is interesting to see harmful conduct that has been apparent for so long finally becoming public. Victims should not be re-victimized by those entrusted to assist those who seek help. Maybe there is really some hope for change!</p>
<p>This is not bad news about the university. This is the best thing that could happen to the university. Once public, it will stop. The university will become a better place to be. Other good news is that,out of 64 SUNY campuses, Binghamton is the only campus to make the list. That suggests that the 63 other campuses do things differently. That is great news for New York State! Most of NY State colleges and universities are doing things right. That is good news indeed. </p>