By: Hannah Larrabee-Walcutt, W*SS Graduate Student Intern
This week, my thoughts are consumed with the news that the Spartan community (and nation) received about Michigan State University football coach Mel Tucker. While there is an ongoing investigation, we do know a few things:
“In his statements to the Title IX investigator, Tucker acknowledged masturbating on the call but said Tracy grossly mischaracterized the episode” (Jacoby, 2023).
Mel Tucker does not deny his actions. He even goes a step further to publicly denounce Brenda Tracy and the platform on which her organization is built, further perpetuating the culture of doubting survivors.
In a letter to the Title IX investigator, Tucker wrote, “To say that I have learned from this situation is an understatement. I will never again allow myself to be duped by kindness.” (Jacoby, 2023)
Mel Tucker does not apologize for what he did. He shows no remorse toward the people that he hurt– and he hurt so many with his actions.
I am absolutely disgusted by the lack of respect and judgment that Mel Tucker has. As head coach, he was supposed to be a role model for the men on our Football team, and for others across the nation who watch Spartan football. He has now publicly admitted to cheating on his wife of twenty years, claiming that they were estranged at the time (as if that makes a difference), and is encouraging the public to doubt a survivor’s public statements and experience.
I have read Tucker’s statement (Lounsberry, 2023), and I understand that there are two sides to every story, but the bottom line is that Tucker should be held to a moral standard because he represents the University. Along with that, there is also a difference between a public trial and the hearing processes within a University when Title IX is involved.
While our University does have to navigate the terms of Tucker’s contract, I sincerely hope that he is held accountable for his actions in some way, no matter the outcome of the hearing on October 5-6. Especially after everything in MSU’s history, MSU needs to be firm with how they respond to any case regarding relationship violence and sexual misconduct (RVSM).
To Support Our Students:
I know that these events are upsetting for most, but that they can even be triggering for some. Any feelings that you have are valid. Here at W*SS, we want to encourage you to seek professional help if needed. Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS), MSU Safe Place, and the Center for Survivors are great resources on campus. Aside from professional help, you are always welcome to come chat with the staff in our office, located in the Basement of the Student Services Building, room 14.
Contact Information for Resources Referenced:
Counseling and Psychiatric Services:
CAPS Appointments & Cancellations: (517) 355-8270
Press “1” at the prompt to speak with a crisis counselor (CAPS is providing remote crisis services 24/7/365)
Other prompt options are available for those not in crisis.
MSU Safe Place
(517) 355-1100
Center for Survivors
Located at: Student Services Building, Suite 207, 556 E. Circle Drive East Lansing, MI 48823
(517)355-3551
Women*s Student Services
Located at Student Services Building, Room 14, 556 E. Circle Drive East Lansing, MI 48823
(517)432-7555
Other Resources: https://wss.msu.edu/resources/index.html
References:
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