Just Advocating for Policy Changes
Advocating for Policy Changes
Just Stalking is working to advocate for policy changes within public and private agencies, organizations, and businesses throughout the state. It is imperative that individuals entering these spaces are informed of their risk of stalking violence, as well as how to report their stalking victimization if it occurs. The processes and procedures should not be difficult, hidden, or worse yet, nonexistent. Victims should be advised on steps to take, and resources available, particularly if the stalking is not related to domestic violence (DV).
Suggestions, help, or Concerns
We are here to help. If your organization wants to create a stalking policy and would like assistance, please feel free to contact us. Additionally, if you would like to refer your agency to us, please contact us. If you currently have a stalking policy you would like to share with us and our community, please reach out. Thank you!
Just a safer community
Grade Schools
School environments need to advise students and staff better about the warning signs of stalking. Stalking is often absorbed by bullying and assault warnings and trainings; however, stalking has unique features. Stalking behaviors can be either cyber or within a physical space.
Colleges and Universities
Colleges and Universities have unique challenges. They may have responsibilities for students, staff, professors, and visitors on campus or other university property, as well as for off-campus activities, such as internships. It is important that staff clarify the risk of stalking behaviors in various environments and career fields.
First responders
911 dispatchers have the responsibility to recognize the seriousness of stalking and the threat of a stalker in proximity to their victim. Additionally, police officers must receive better training to recognize stalking behavior. They also need to address it promptly when it is occurring, such as removing offenders who have violated PPOs.
Employers
Employers must have up to date harassment and stalking policies that are distinct from sexual harassment and sexual assault policies. These policies should address how DV/IPV stalking impacts the workplace as well as how work-related stalking or harassment is handled. Employers should also have policies for victims' safety as well as any additional PTO needed for legal or other requirements.
The public
Neighborhood watch programs can be a deterrent to crime as well as alert potential victims and first responders. While there are not neighborhood policies requiring individuals to alert each other or first responders, programs such as Neighborhood Watch should share the potential specific signs of stalking behavior, so neighbors can be more vigilant and inform others. Follow-up and follow-through is vital to this process.
See something, Say something
The best thing we can all do is participate. Be a good neighbor, employer, employee, classmate, friend, or family member. If you see behavior that is potentially inappropriate speak out. Do not wait for the behavior to escalate. Tell the person or a trusted individual. It's better to be safe than sorry.
