UniswithHeart's 24-month study explored the role of Student Networks of Solidarity (SNS) in addressing sexual harassment in Spanish and US universities. Despite formal preventive measures, the study highlighted the crucial, yet understudied, role of informal mechanisms in supporting survivors and emphasized the need for systematic research on their creation, longevity, and impact.
During its UC Berkeley phase, UniswithHeart explored grassroots movements, students, and activists' role in creating Student Networks of Solidarity (SNS) for survivors. The study delved into social actors, barriers, and connections with formal university mechanisms across nine institutions (six more than the three planned). The project, beyond university analysis, examined case resolutions, considering geographical and cultural contexts. With 67 interviews and focus groups, it surpassed the initial plan, exceeding the intended 30 techniques.
To achieve outgoing objectives, UniswithHeart pursued three main data collection blocks. First, it examined anti-harassment policies in 20+ universities, conducting 32 interviews with staff responsible for addressing sexual harassment. Second, it studied support networks like CARE Centers at Harvard, UC Berkeley, and Stanford, with the PATH to Care Center at UC Berkeley as a primary case study, involving 18 interviews and focus groups. Third, it explored the link between support networks and administration through 9 interviews with organizations like AAUP, NSVRC, It's on US, EROC, RAINN, SafeBAE, and others.
Seven interviews with top scientists explored "mandatory report vs. mandatory support" to understand elements in universities most supportive of survivors, aligning with UniswithHeart's project goal.
Using UC Berkeley research, UniswithHeart aims to offer fresh insights on adapting student support networks to the European context, focusing on informing survivors and supporters, particularly in Spain and Europe.