Redding, CA, March 13, 2009. Administrators at Simpson University returned a finding of "sexual misconduct" today against gay junior Adam Crawford.
The 21-year-old Crawford said, "I have been informed that the official findings are that I did not assault or harass the other party involved. They did, however, find that sexual misconduct took place."
Crawford continued, "When I asked exactly what that meant, I was given this vague answer: 'We believe that the other party involved had unwittingly implied consent to a sexual advance.'"
The language in the Simpson University "Student Handbook" is quite vague concerning "inappropriate sexual conduct":
"Simpson University affirms the biblical guidelines that all sexual relationships are within the context of a faithful heterosexual marriage. Inappropriate sexual conduct discipline, which is administered in a caring and redemptive manner. Each situation separately so that the help that is provided is the best for the individuals involved."
The incident to which Crawford refers occurred nearly two months ago when he came out to a friend, telling him he was gay.
According to Crawford, the administration gave him three options:
1) Agree with findings, sign documentation stating such, and agree to disciplinary sanctions created by the Director of Student Life.
2) Disagree with findings, but agree to "work" on sanctions with the Director of Student Life
3) Disagree with findings and officially appeal decision.
Ronald Goetz, president of the Simpson University LGBT Alumni Association, says he is watching the situation carefully.
"Our main concern is that Adam be treated the way any straight student would be treated. Under no circumstances should Simpson University administrators treat Adam Crawford any differently than they would a straight student."
