We want to thank Mr. Pennington (“Urinal splashguards send offensive message,”Jan. 17 letter) for continuing an important discussion on this campus. The good news is that we are glad he is offended. The bad news is that he seems to be offended for the wrong reasons. Mr. Pennington, you should be offended — offended that women and men are being sexually assaulted and raped on a daily basis.

Men Stopping Rape (MSR) began placing splashguards in urinals on campus and downtown in 2001. Please read the splashguard more carefully. It does not say, “Hey! You are a potential rapist.” Our goal was to get the attention of men and remind them that sexual assault and rape happen. As men, we often have the privilege of not having to think about this every day of our lives, whereas many women do. Our hope was that more men would talk about what they can do to stop these crimes from being committed.

Obviously, not all men are rapists. But most perpetrators of sexual assault and rape are, in fact, men — the conservative estimate is 99 percent. While virtually all sexual assaults and rape are committed by men, it does not mean that virtually all men are the ones who do.

But just because you are a “non-rapist” does not mean that this is not your problem and that you cannot be a part of the solution. If more “non-rapists” like Mr. Pennington were vocal about their outrage regarding sexual assault and rape, this campus might finally be able to engage in discussions that could have a lasting impact. Why aren’t more men vocal about sexual assault and rape?

However, what we find disturbing is his notion that resources should be focused on educating only women. That will not do it. Men need to be educated first and foremost. The most effective solution to stopping assault is for the perpetrator to not commit the crime. By targeting prevention efforts on only women, you imply that there is nothing men can do — and we’re talking about all men here, both the “non-rapists” and the “rapists.” Sexual assault and rape are everyone’s problem.

Perhaps even more troubling is his call for solving violence with even more violence. These reactive measures do nothing to actually stop the crimes from being committed. Instead of getting angry, focus your anger on the fact that the women in your life often have to worry about sexual assault and rape on a daily basis. Be angry that women and men are being assaulted on this campus.

Our call to all men on this campus is to be vocal. Share your outrage. Talk to other men about it. Don’t go another day without reminding yourself that sexual assault and rape still happen. Come to an MSR meeting on Thursdays in 120 Boucke at 7:30 p.m. or provide your ideas and feedback at menstoppingrape@psu.edu. This campus desperately needs your help.