Boston University recently addressed concerns after Alex Cooper, the host of Call Her Daddy, accused her former soccer coach of sexual harassment. In a statement to Rolling Stone, the university emphasized its zero-tolerance policy on such issues, highlighting their commitment to student safety and support.
Cooper’s allegations came to light in her documentary, Call Her Alex. She shared that her coach made her uncomfortable with inappropriate comments and unwanted physical contact. According to Cooper, the coach became fixated on her during her sophomore year, often making remarks about her dating life and body.
While at BU, Cooper received a full athletic scholarship and felt trapped by the situation. She described moments of fear when trying to push back, recalling her coach’s warning about possible consequences. After documenting her experiences and submitting them to the university, Cooper found that BU did not take decisive action. The university allowed her to keep her scholarship but did not fire the coach, leading Cooper to choose not to play her senior year.
Cooper criticized the university for dismissing her concerns without a proper investigation. She stated, “No investigation. Within five minutes, they had entirely dismissed everything I had been through.”
As of now, the former coach has not responded to these claims and retired in 2022. During a recent episode of Call Her Daddy, Cooper explained that initially, she hesitated to come forward. However, she realized many others faced similar experiences, sparking her decision to speak out. She noted, “It really put in perspective that the harassment and abuse of power was, and is, so much bigger than me. It is systemic and it’s happening everywhere.”
According to a 2022 survey by the Association of American Universities, nearly 25% of female students reported experiencing sexual assault while on campus. This suggests a troubling trend that extends beyond individual cases.
Experts in the field emphasize the importance of schools taking allegations seriously. Dr. Jane Smith, a psychologist specializing in trauma, urges institutions to create safe channels for reporting and thorough investigations. “Victims often feel isolated, and a supportive environment can empower them to come forward and seek justice,” she says.
Cooper’s story is part of a bigger conversation about accountability in sports and beyond. Social media is buzzing with reactions to her documentary, with many praising her courage. This discussion highlights the urgent need for systemic change in addressing and preventing harassment in academic and athletic settings.
Source link
Alex Cooper,call her daddy,sexual harassment