Sunday, October 16, 2016

Your words matter!

I hate politics. Usually I completely ignore what everyone has to say about the issues and candidates, research for myself, and then vote. This election cycle has been brutal. I honestly don't care who you vote for, but please read the following before you spew stuff all over Facebook or any other form of social media.

Your words matter! Please think before you post. Trump's words were not "locker room banter" they described assault. They were incredibly triggering for so many people who have been victims of sexual assault. I have many friends who are amazing people who would never knowingly hurt someone and their posts have demeaned those who would be offended and belittled some of the most courageous people I know, survivors. Friends, THIS IS RAPE CULTURE. When we make light of sexual assault, even if it just the description, we are part of the problem. When we claim someone who would say such things is a moral person and defend them, we are part of the problem. When we compare this person's morality with that of another, we are part of the problem. Rape is a serious issue in our culture. 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will experience sexual assault before they turn 18. Reality is you probably know several victims of this horrible crime without even realizing it.

Many victims never tell what happened to them. I probably never would have told if the police hadn't called me 13 years after the fact. Please understand that victims feel ashamed and don't want that shame publicly broadcast so they often never tell until years later, if ever. Please don't discount someone's story just because they waited years to tell.

Please understand that this is not a Trump bashing post. This is my heart to help protect those that are not only being hurt by his words and actions, but also the words and actions of many who seek to defend him. There is no defense for assault, or even joking about assault. It isn't "locker room banter", it is wrong and it is hurting many people.