Girls supporting Girls (TW)

Due to the current uproar over social media on sexual harassment, sexual assault and rape. I thought I would dedicate this post to the situation. If you believe that you are sensitive to any of the topics mentioned and find them triggering, please feel free to skip out on this week’s post. In this post, I intend to bring awareness to how people can stand up against rape culture. I want to make it clear that this isn't just meant for women-it is also important that men can stand up as well-however, this is coming from a female perspective.

 

1. Stop victim blaming

We often blame the victim for their assault, as this is embedded in our society. For example, a common response is "she was asking for it.” This is so harmful and we need to rephrase this narrative. As a society, we must learn to stop objectifying women and excusing the crime that has been committed. Rapists don't rape clothes, they rape people-there needs to be a stop to the 'slut shaming' culture and understand that just because she was wearing a dress doesn't mean she was being asked to be raped! 

2. Educating others

One in three women worldwide have been sexually harassed. In order to stop this, we need to inspire future feminists by teaching the meaning of consent at a young age and challenging gender stereotype ideals. The definition of 'consent' is the "permission for something to happen or the agreement to do something"- just because they are your partner doesn't mean they have given you consent, both must agree before any sexual interaction happens, and this goes for everyone!

3. Listening to survivors 

There are so many online movements supporting and fighting for the end of sexual harassment, assault and rape. By following ME TOO, TIMES UP and GENERATION EQUALITY, you will be able to listen and read stories of survivors and activists around the world.

4. Don't ignore it 

According to the UN, 97% of women aged (between ages 16-25) have been sexually harassed. Violence against women is very common, and if and when we witness this, we must intervene and help keep people safe; keeping yourself safe in the process. 

Helping could be reporting the incident (with the victim's consent), diffusing the situation or helping the victim get out of the situation. 

"We hear you, we see you, we believe you"

Love 

Aria xo