We’ve done extensive, detailed reporting on the topic that’s based on university documents and outside audits we’ve obtained through public records requests. We’re extremely proud of that work, but we need to do more.

We created this edition to highlight the stories of those who have dealt with violence that the university systematically ignored and emphasize what needs to be done better. However, the issue is that many times, the problems in the system remain unresolved until survivors have to speak up about the way they had been failed by those meant to protect them. 

That seems to be the only thing to cut through MSU’s apathy to their pleas. 

We’re not going to learn the truth about these issues through notes in a case-file or a consultant’s report. To truly understand the effect of sexual violence and the ways MSU has handled it, we need to talk directly to those most affected: survivors.

We’re not interested in detailed recounting of acts of sexual violence, we’re not looking to make news out of someone’s trauma. We are interested in everything that happened after the conduct — how survivors are being treated by MSU and those affiliated with the university.

If you have a story to share, please reach out.

We don’t have to publish your name in anything we write. If you’d prefer, we could even not write anything at all. Just having conversations with those who have dealt with MSU’s systems for policing sexual violence can help us be better informed in our reporting.

Our reporter, Alex Walters, has reported on Title IX issues extensively, working with survivors to illuminate their stories. You can reach him by email at alex.walters@statenews.com or by phone at (248) 979-5497.