Is it Rape?

January 28, 2017

Is it rape?


First off, if you’re even asking this question…if you’re wondering whether a sexual encounter is rape or not, we’re so sorry. Maybe you’re looking for answers for yourself, a friend or a family member, whatever the case, we want you to know that you’re not alone. If you have questions about what “counts” as rape, we hope this blog will be helpful.


From 2006 to 2010, 2 of every 3 rape or sexual assault incidents weren’t reported to the police. That means about 65% of rape victims don’t report what has happened to them. And 6% of those victims don’t report because they believe their assault isn’t important enough to be reported. Additionally, 13% believe the police can’t or won’t help.


These statistics tell us that if you’re confused about whether what has happened is rape or not, or if you haven’t reported it or if you aren’t sure the police could help, you aren’t alone.


So let’s talk about what rape is.


In Nebraska, sexual assault is defined as

  • sexual penetration without the consent of the victim or
  • when the offender knows or should know the victim is incapable of resisting or
  • when the offender is 19 or older and the victim is younger than 16


This means it’s rape if you don’t consent to the sexual activity. If you don’t give permission for someone to have sex with you or to put any part of his body in you, it is – by law – considered sexual assault.


It IS rape

  • if you were asleep
  • if you were threatened
  • if you were incapacitated by drugs or alcohol
  • if you were unconscious
  • if you were forced
  • if you are under the age of consent (16 in Nebraska)
  • if you changed your mind or if your no was ignored


Even if

  • you know the person or are in a relationship with the person
  • you have already had sex with that person on another occasion
  • you were fooling around but then you changed your mind
  • you were drunk 71 or high or dressed provocatively
  • the person took you to dinner or bought you gifts


If both people don’t willingly agree to sexual activity, it’s sexual assault or rape.


If you read this and realize you have been raped, you’re not alone. Sadly, 1 in 5 women and 1 in 71 men are raped at some time in their lives. And for women, only 13.8% of rapes are done by strangers. Most offenders are the intimate partners of the victims – husbands or boyfriends.


Anyone of any gender, age, sexuality, social class or level of ability can be raped. There’s no excuse for rape, and it’s never the victim’s fault. If you’ve been raped, we want you to know, it’s not your fault. You did not ask to be assaulted.


We know it may be difficult to talk about but if you have questions on what to do next or need someone to talk to, we’re here to help. Feel free to call us in Kearney, (308) 234-9880 or in Grand Island, (308) 675-2217. If you do find yourself in a situation where you have been sexually assaulted contact Campus Police,Kearney Police or the Grand Island Police right away. Also, the Family Advocacy Network in Kearney and the Willow Rising in Grand Island are great resources if you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault.

What Are My Second-Trimester Pregnancy Options?

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If you’re in your second trimester (between 13 and 26 weeks of pregnancy), you might be asking, What now? Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, or maybe this stage of pregnancy is bringing new questions or emotions. No matter where you are in your journey, Collage is here to offer support, information, and a safe place to talk through your options. Understanding Abortion Laws in Nebraska In Nebraska, abortion is not permitted after 12 weeks gestation, with limited exceptions. If you’re considering abortion and believe you may be near or past this point, it’s important to have an ultrasound to confirm how far along you are. If you’re unsure how far along you are, Collage offers no-cost lab-quality pregnancy testing and ultrasounds to provide the medical information you need to understand your next steps. Exploring Your Other Pregnancy Options If abortion is not an option or you’re unsure what’s next, you still have choices. We can talk with you more about each of them. Parenting Parenting might feel like something you’re not ready for or even impossible right now. But with the right support, it may be more achievable than you think. You don’t have to have all the answers today. At Collage, we can connect you with local resources, parenting classes, and support systems that can help you prepare, step by step. You won’t be alone. Adoption If parenting doesn’t seem like the right fit for your current season, adoption is another option that gives you the ability to make a thoughtful plan for your child. Today’s adoption process puts you in control of key decisions, including:  Choosing the adoptive family Deciding how much (if any) communication you’d like to have Creating a plan that reflects your goals and values We offer adoption referrals and a confidential space to explore what this might look like for you—no pressure, just information and support. You’re Not Alone Navigating pregnancy in the second trimester can feel heavy, but you don’t have to walk through it by yourself. At Collage, you’ll find compassionate care, medical services, and honest answers to your questions. Schedule your no-cost appointment today. We’re here to listen and support through this process.

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