To the Stanford University and Worcester Polytechnic rape victims,
First off, I am sorry.
I am sorry that there are people who think it was “20 minutes of action” or that you are lying. The night you were raped was probably the scariest thing you have ever experienced.
I am sorry we live in a world where people get major sentences for marijuana possession, but a rapist gets six months because he is an athlete and it might take a negative toll on him. This world has a problem for victimizing the rapist and leaving the actual victim feeling guilty. Brock Turner gets half of his six-month sentence and a fundraiser to help with legal funds, and his victim gets partially blamed.
I am also sorry that you, Worcester Polytechnic victim, were accused of putting out because you wanted to see the view and followed a uniformed security guard to the roof.
I am sorry that even though he got a long sentence your university turned their backs on you when you needed them the most.I would like to let you know that not everyone turned their backs on you. People are outraged by what is going on and are standing up for you. There are petitions and articles talking about how you both deserve justice. I know nothing I say can take away what happened to you ladies that night, but just know I stand with you both. I do not stand with you because I am a woman, I have a mother, or I know rape victims personally. I stand with you because I am a human being and so are both of you. I sincerely hope that you know how many people stand with you guys as well.
Remember, you are allowed to cry and be angry, and just know you both have dealt with these horrible events with such grace and strength. I commend you for being able to pick yourselves up and fight. I sat in the break room at work sobbing as I read the letter you, Stanford victim, wrote and read aloud to your attacker. I do not think people understand the physical, emotional, and psychological trauma rape has on its victims. People are uneducated about not only that but consent in general. Questions are always asked to the victims, like, “What were you wearing”, “Had you been drinking”, “Did you flirt?” This interrogation has nothing to do with finding justice for the victim.
The number one cause of rape is the rapist.
It has no relation to alcohol consumption, the way the victim was dressed, or her behavior. It has everything to do with the fact that the rapist is a rapist. I do not know how much clearer it can be.
So now I say to you two women: I hear you. I hear your cries and you both have inspired people all around the nation. I am ready to take a stand to abolish rape culture. Keep fighting because your fight is educating the world on why this country does not take rape seriously and something has got to change.
Sincerely,
A concerned woman, college student, and fellow human being.
