The author recounts their own experience of rape and the subsequent struggles they faced in seeking justice and recovery. Despite knowing that the incident constituted rape in the eyes of the law, they were discouraged from reporting it to the police and faced humiliation and broken relationships as a result. The trauma led to depression and thoughts of suicide, but ultimately, they found the strength to move forward and pursue their dreams. However, they continued to carry feelings of shame, fear, and anger, and struggled to trust those around them.
The author draws parallels between their own experiences and the recent case of Brittany Higgins, highlighting a culture that has long celebrated predators and allowed for the mistreatment of women. They recall instances of misogyny and sexual assault that were normalized within their own social circles, where men engaged in harmful behavior with little consequence. They emphasize the need to challenge the dominance of Anglo/Celtic men in society and dismantle the systems that protect predators and silence victims.
The author reflects on the revelations that have surfaced in recent years regarding sexual misconduct in private schools, parliament, and other institutions. They point to the pervasive culture of secrecy and complicity that has allowed these abuses to go unchecked, with many individuals in positions of power implicated in enabling or turning a blind eye to such behavior. The author expresses anger at the many missed red flags in their own life and the broader failure to protect young victims from harm.
The author acknowledges the support they received from some men at their college who stood up for women and condemned the culture of abuse. They call on men to actively challenge and condemn toxic behavior, recognizing the harm that rape and discrimination cause not only to women but also to men who are affected by the prevailing culture. They urge both men and women to speak out against sexism and violence, and to support victims in their quest for justice and healing.
The author urges women from older generations to come forward and share their stories of assault and discrimination, in order to break the silence and stigma surrounding these issues. By raising awareness of the scale of the problem, they believe that meaningful change can be achieved and a culture that enables violence and discrimination can be dismantled. They emphasize the importance of seizing the opportunity presented by recent legal rulings to push for lasting societal transformation.
In conclusion, the author calls for a united effort to create a more just and equitable society, where violence and discrimination against women are no longer tolerated. They encourage individuals to seek help if needed and provide resources for those in crisis. They emphasize the power of collective action to bring about change and express hope for a future where all people can live free from fear and oppression.
