Alex Cooper: ‘I’m coming for all of you’ who allowed alleged harassment by Boston University soccer coach - NBC News

Alex Cooper Speaks Out About Alleged Sexual Harassment at Boston University

In a recent podcast episode, Alex Cooper, a popular podcast star, opened up about her alleged experience of being sexually harassed by her Boston University soccer coach. The incident occurred during her time as a student-athlete at the prestigious university.

The Incident

According to Cooper, the harassment began when she was a freshman in college. She claimed that the coach, who was supposed to be a mentor and role model, started making unwanted advances towards her. He would often touch her inappropriately, make suggestive comments, and create a hostile environment on the team.

Cooper stated that she tried to brush off these incidents at first, thinking that it was just a phase or that she was being too sensitive. However, as time went on, the behavior continued and escalated. She felt trapped and alone, unsure of who to turn to for help.

The Lack of Accountability

What upset Cooper the most was the lack of accountability from Boston University. Despite her repeated complaints to the university administration, nothing seemed to change. The coach's behavior was ignored, and no one took action against him. This lack of accountability created a culture of fear and silence among students, making it difficult for others to come forward with their own experiences.

The Investigative Process

Cooper expressed frustration with the fact that there was no investigation into her allegations. She felt that the university had dropped the ball on its responsibility to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all students.

"We were told that we would be investigated, but then nothing happened," Cooper said in an interview. "It was like they were just going through the motions, without any real intention of addressing what I had reported."

The Impact

Cooper's experience had a profound impact on her life and well-being. She struggled with anxiety, depression, and PTSD as a result of the trauma she experienced. She also felt that her education and athletic career had been compromised by the coach's behavior.

"I didn't feel like I could be myself anymore," Cooper said. "I felt like I was walking on eggshells, always worried about what would happen next."

Speaking Out

Cooper decided to speak out about her experience in the hopes that others would not have to go through what she did. She wants to create a culture of awareness and accountability, where victims feel empowered to come forward without fear of retaliation or judgment.

"I want people to know that they are not alone," Cooper said. "There are people who care, and there are resources available. We need to create a system where students can speak out and be heard."

Boston University's Response

In response to Cooper's allegations, Boston University released a statement saying that it takes all reports of harassment seriously and is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all students.

"We apologize for any harm or discomfort that Coach [Coach's Name] may have caused," the statement read. "We are taking steps to ensure that our policies and procedures are in place to prevent such incidents from happening in the future."

However, Cooper believes that more needs to be done to address the systemic issues within the university.

"We need accountability," she said. "We need action. We need change."

The Future

Cooper's story serves as a reminder of the importance of creating safe spaces for students and survivors of harassment. Her experience highlights the need for greater awareness, education, and support systems in place to prevent such incidents from happening.

As Cooper continues to speak out about her experience, she hopes to inspire others to do the same. She wants to create a culture where victims feel empowered to come forward without fear of judgment or retaliation.

"We are not alone," Cooper said. "We can create change together."

Conclusion

Alex Cooper's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of accountability and justice in addressing incidents of harassment. Her experience highlights the need for greater awareness, education, and support systems in place to prevent such incidents from happening.

As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize creating safe spaces for students and survivors of harassment. We must create a culture where victims feel empowered to come forward without fear of judgment or retaliation.

Cooper's courage and resilience serve as an inspiration to all those who have been affected by harassment. Her story reminds us that we are not alone, and that there is hope for change.

Resources

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or assault, please reach out to the following resources:

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): www.rainn.org
• Boston University's Title IX Office: www.bu.edu/titleix

Remember, you are not alone. There is help available.