The Me Too movement continues to have a radical influence on the world we live in, as seen by recent events in France and Spain. In France, the case of Gisèle Pelicot, a woman who was drugged by her husband for years to be raped by strangers, has shaken society to its core. Meanwhile, in Spain, anonymous accusations on Instagram led to the resignation of feminist politician Íñigo Errejón. Some are already speaking of the “15-M scam”, attributing the movement’s downfall to ethical standards that exposed the shortcomings of hyperleaderships within political parties. This has raised questions about which other leaders may still be protected by systemic and common sexism, shielding them from accountability.
The transformative and revolutionary movement was not the 15-M, but the Me Too movement. This perspective helps us understand recent events and the broader changes happening in society. The traditional image of the monstrous rapist waiting in the woods has been shattered by stories of women who have come forward since the Me Too movement began in October 2017. It has become clear that perpetrators of violence and harassment are often familiar figures in the victim’s life, not strangers lurking in the shadows. This unsettling reality challenges conventional narratives and exposes the banality of abuse and violence perpetrated by ordinary individuals.
A new generation of young people has recognized the need to navigate these turbulent and uncomfortable waters in order to challenge entrenched sexist beliefs and behaviors that benefit perpetrators of violence. There is a reflex to revert to old patterns: victimizing the accused, downplaying the severity of the actions, and resisting a perceived “radical” feminism that is seen as too extreme. This resistance hinders progress towards a more nuanced understanding of consent, abuse, and the support networks that victims of violence deserve. By rejecting the outdated model that excuses abusers, this generation of feminists is paving the way for legislative and social changes that prioritize the well-being of survivors.
The temptation to revert to a narrative that excuses abusers blinds us to the potential for meaningful change that this new feminist wave brings. By redefining abuse and emphasizing care, affection, and support for survivors, this movement is challenging societal norms and pushing for a shift in attitudes towards gender-based violence. While not all men are perpetrators of violence, the reality remains that the vast majority of abusers are ordinary men in positions of power and influence. It is essential to recognize and address this uncomfortable truth in order to create a safer and more equitable society for all.
The current upheaval is a reminder that the fight for gender equality is far from over and that progress requires sustained effort and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. The Me Too movement has been instrumental in exposing the prevalence of gender-based violence and abuse, challenging outdated perceptions of perpetrators, and advocating for systemic change. By listening to and amplifying the voices of survivors and supporting their calls for justice, society can move towards a more just and equitable future. It is crucial for all individuals to reflect on their own behaviors and beliefs, and actively work towards dismantling the structures that perpetuate gender-based violence and discrimination. Only through collective action and solidarity can we create a society where all individuals are respected, valued, and treated with dignity and equality.
