People ask strange questions about sexual violence that they wouldn't think to ask about other crimes like robbery or physical violence.Consider
People ask strange questions about sexual violence that they wouldn’t think to ask about other crimes like robbery or physical violence.
Consider this:
People have asked:
Why would he go to the trouble of pretending to be a woman just to stalk or rape you?
But do not ask……
Why would he go to the trouble of pretending to work for the utility company just to break into your home and commit a home invasion?
Why would he go to the trouble of pretending to be a lost stranger just to get you to pull out your phone to help him find directions? (while you are distracted and taken off guard, he snatches it)
In the example of the utility company, there are warnings.
Customers are encouraged to call the company to check their identification through a locked door and window.
Customers are encouraged to call the utility company to verify the work and the worker’s identity.
Meanwhile, society thinks nothing of gaslighting women and girls who voice valid concerns about the motives and identity of males who share their spaces.
As a society, we believe that people should do whatever it takes to protect property. Remember, “stand your ground”?
Law enforcement speaks out and warns the public. There are public service announcements.
“Protect yourself. Protect your property.”
Even when women and girls ask questions or voice concerns about protecting our bodies and our spaces we are met with accusations and ostracism. That is silencing.
It demonstrates how little you value the lives of women and girls.
This is not a new development. Throughout humanity’s existence on this planet, protecting property has been a higher priority than protecting women and girls.
Sadly, even among other women and girls.
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