Brock Turner: the name that will go down in infamy. If it wasn’t clear before, this case is a clear representation on white privilege and the failure of our government.
Government disapproval has been a rising factor especially regarding the criminal justice system. There has been several previous cases as well which have also not been given the fair punishment deserved or even worse -- have been declared innocent when indeed they were guilty.
Just for an example on the white privilege aspect, several media outlets aren't evening using Brock's mugshot; they are using a head shot of him in a suit and tie. The media has pointed out his swimming records, his hopeful USA Olympic career, and how his dad said he is upset his son won't eat steak anymore. Well at least the Olympic team has gone on the record to say he is not welcomed.
The media and justice system has been disgusting in this case. Society outreach is the only reason that there has been such a positive support for rape victims.
But this isn’t just an attack on race. This is an attack on rape culture. It’s the reason why girls are told to wear more when they intend on going out. It’s the reason girls are encouraged to travel in groups. This is the issue with our society.
Now, I’m all for the fact that girls shouldn’t be dumb. No one should walk across a college campus at 2 a.m. alone without protection such as pepper spray. But, this case wasn’t even just an attack on women “provoking” men to do illegal, disgusting things. This was a blatant disregard to women everywhere -- not just college students.
This is saying that the judge doesn’t understand the everlasting trauma that rape can have on a victim. The criminal justice system failed by caring more about the rapist than it did the victim.
But, this isn't the first time. According to the Sexual Assault Response Services of Maine, nationally, there is only a 16.3% chance that a rapist will end up in prison. This is an alarming number. Victims are being silenced and there is no wonder that 61% of rapes aren't reported. Victims feel like it's more of a hassle than actual justice being served. Our justice system has some reforming to do.
Brock Turner is not a college swimmer. Brock Turner is not a rich, smart man. Brock Turner is a rapist and that is how he should be remembered.
It’s a shame to see anyone condone such actions especially his father. If you haven’t already read Brock Turner’s Dad’s letter to the judge regarding his son's actions then I invite you to do so here.
His Dad basically said he doesn’t like how his “20 minutes of action” is already effecting his son so much that he is no longer able to enjoy his favorite snacks or relax like a young college student should be able to. Well, Mr. Turner, your son lost every human right when he decided to violate this innocent woman. Did you not even begin to think that perhaps she isn’t able to enjoy her favorite snacks? She can’t relax and enjoy the simple things anymore? The only difference is she didn’t choose any of this. Your son did.
It is a disgrace as a college student to see this judge and this father condone such actions. What are we as college students supposed to think now? Do you realize how many rapes are unreported simply because the victim chooses to believe that they are at fault or they are silenced by others? This verdict can only further those beliefs.Well rest assured. If anyone is in this situation I can assure you someone is there. Someone will always be there to help you. There are numerous outlets including the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline: 800.656.HOPE.
You are not alone in this fight. Our society has had a large outrage of this case and it is clear that there are far more people on your side than there are people condoning this. Vice President Biden even wrote a letter to the victim stating how proud he was of her bravery and how he was deeply sorry for how many people failed her that night in January, and the months that followed.
This case proves that we still have a lot of progress to make as a society. I believe with all the outreach and outrage that has been expressed, we are taking a step in the right direction. The cards are now in the government's hands, and that is terrifying.
