President Obama on Tuesday declined to weigh in on the rape accusations against comedian Bill Cosby, saying it was “important to not focus on one case,” when it comes to the broader issue of sexual assault.
Obama said he had broad concerns “about how women and sometimes men are subjected to sexual assaults.”
“That’s been true in our military; that’s been true in our colleges and universities — we’re focused at the White House on making sure we raise awareness,” Obama said during an interview with Univision.
{mosads}Cosby has refused to comment on the mounting sexual assault accusations against him, with multiple women alleging the now 77-year old actor drugged and sexually assaulted them. In most cases, the statute of limitations on the cases has lapsed, preventing the possibility of criminal charges being filed.
Obama said, at the White House, he and his team were focused both on passing laws to help prevent sexual assault, but “also changing minds and culture not only to make it safe for those who have been assaulted to come forward, but to also change the mindset of men particularly our young men who are coming up so they understand no means no.”
The president said his message for young men was “that respect for women and individuals is what makes you strong.”
Earlier this year, the White House launched an awareness campaign called “It’s On Us” urging young men to take a greater role in helping prevent sexual violence. College sports conferences, music television networks, and video game consoles have agreed to air ads featuring top celebrities imploring young men to intervene and prevent assaults.
The Pentagon has also adopted new initiatives designed to reduce assault in its ranks, although the administration’s efforts there have drawn criticism. According to a report released by the Department of Defense last week, some 5,983 sexual assaults in the military ranks were reported last year.
Critics of the president have implored him to endorse legislation offered by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) that would remove sexual assault investigations from the chain of command. So far, the White House has resisted those calls, with military commanders arguing that structure was important to their ability to handle the problem.