According to rainn.org one out of
every six American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape
in her lifetime. Rape. It’s a scary word that’s become far too common in this
day and time. Since news broke out in Hollywood around scandals involving numerous
sexual assaults as well as with other predators in different workplaces and all
over the world, sexual assault is no longer being tolerated.
Although strides and resolutions have been made to prevent its casualties, it
still appears there’s a long road ahead of ending it for
good. Change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s challenging changing a culture even when something as tragic as rape is involved. When I’ve read and watched
haunting stories about men and women who’ve been sexually assaulted, one common
thing I’ve heard is what were they
wearing? As ludicrous as that question must be for victims, what’s scary is
the fact that the question is even presented at all. That question can be
damaging to the victim, because the predator is the one at fault. Why is the
victim being interrogated about their choice in clothing? Here you will find art exhibits showing
clothes worn by different sexual assault survivors, further exploring this
haunting question. No woman, man, child, or anyone else, deserves to have their space
violated or to be victimized by someone, regardless of how they’re dressed.
Also, no one should fear losing their employment, being granted opportunities,
or be threatened by anyone in power who chooses to abuse their authority. It’s wrong but that kind of behavior still happens every single day, and sadly, isn’t always reported. I’ve actually met and spoke with two rape
survivors, both women, who shared their stories with me. One of the things I
found most disturbing about both of their assaults was that they each knew,
trusted, and were well acquainted with the men who raped them. That was painful
to learn. Awareness and accountability is growing, though. It’s incredible to
see the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements supported by men and women from all
different races, cultures, and social-economic backgrounds. There really is
strength in numbers, because it’s going to take as many people as possible to
end sexual assaults and rape culture for good. We’ve had enough casualties and I’m looking forward to change.
As you embark on your career, I want you to know some things and stay woke about what you’ll be up against. Please understand that no matter what, you have value, and you matter. Always remember that. As progressive as this world and different workplaces may seem, every workplace has a culture. You’ll be in different places where a lot of people who don’t look like you will be in the room. But know that you belong in those rooms too. Spend some time observing and studying those spaces and learn as much as you can. There will be people you work with who will make presumptions about your competence, education, and ability to fulfill your job duties. There will be more who will think less of you because of the color of your skin and try to disqualify you the moment you make an error, mistake, or ask questions about things you may not understand. This will all feel uncomfortable and you may get insecure, feel like you’re all by yourself, and think you don’t belong there, but ride it out...