In light of the recent Brock Turner jail sentence announcement, I think it’s about time for victims of sexual abuse to feel encouraged to come forward after a traumatic and life changing event. However, our current criminal justice system and rape culture do not make this easy. The fact that a man who raped an innocent and undeserving woman, let alone anyone in general, can serve merely half a year in prison makes me sick to my stomach. In addition to the thousands who try to justify Brock Turner’s actions, there are many people across the country that have sexually assaulted women; and have gotten away with it solely because people are scared to come forward.

In my eyes, this issue begins at a young age. Children may be exposed to a household with sexual assault or abuse, and begin to think that it’s normal. If not that, girls may be taught that wearing certain clothes or makeup may mean that they’re “asking for it”, which I think may be the biggest bullshit I’ve ever heard. How about teaching your kids to respect others and their bodies? We are all living and breathing human beings. No one’s worth is more than someone else’s. No one should have to worry about their safety while at a party, or walking down the street. And no one should have to wake up every day knowing that a man who disgustingly and selfishly took advantage of them, is serving simply six months in prison.

One of the things that infuriates me the most about this case, is the fact that people are sympathizing for Brock Turner. His father wrote a letter saying how Brock can’t eat his favorite foods anymore, and how his swimming career is completely diminished. What about the victim? Do you think she has much of an appetite, or can sleep well at night? She will be reminded of his actions for the rest of her life.

Aside from the Brock Turner case, there are thousands of sexual assault victims across the country that are hesitant to come forward. Possibly because of the evident faults in our criminal justice system, and lack of support for victims. This shouldn’t be the case. Every victim should feel like they can get the justice they deserve.

So, I challenge whoever’s reading this to rethink your views on rape culture. Let us teach our children respect and good judgement. We need to stop sympathizing for the selfish individuals involved in these cases, and start understanding that every human is as equal in worth as the next.