By Ali Mailen Perrotto, Contract Liaison at PCAR:
Ending sexual violence means stopping it before it even has a chance to happen. People working to prevent it understand that we will never end sexual violence until we end all forms of oppression and social disparity.
Why, you ask? Because things like racism, sexism, heterosexism, ableism, and ageism all contribute to and exacerbate the risk for experiencing and perpetrating sexual violence. When we propose policies and practices that have dire outcomes for traditionally marginalized communities, it creates an environment where sexual assault can thrive. The very conversation can have a harmful impact. It sends the message that some members of our society are less valuable.
All people are valued, and should be able to live a life free from fear of violence.
This is why PCAR is committed to voter rights, just policing, marriage equality, family leave, and anti-discrimination. This is why we ask you to join PCAR to build the infrastructure of a society that ensures basic access to things like safe housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and human services. We need your assistance to demonstrate that the voices and experiences of victims matter.
We need your commitment to join us in talking about rape culture. It is clear that there continues to be a widespread acceptance of rape myths, victim-blaming, and excuses for misogynistic ideology. We need everyone’s participation in active and thoughtful dialogue that invites growth, rather than shuts people out. We have some work to do, but it is work that we must to do together.
This election cycle has caused real and palpable trauma to many. Many of the most marginalized members of our society fear for their safety, equality and rights they have fought so hard to attain. Many victims of sexual violence have noted they have experienced trauma that echoes to their own victimization.
To all those struggling with trauma--we see you, and we will continue to work for you.
We can collectively take a breath, and care for our needs. Take time to reflect, grieve, think, love and grow. Have conversations with our loved ones about our commitment to treat each and every person with which we interact with dignity and respect—to value equality and embrace the differences among members of our communities. We remain committed to fighting oppression in all its forms.