When I studied at university, I majored in English, which most of you already know, and I minored in women and gender studies. One of the key teachings we discussed in my women and gender courses was the concept of victim blaming, and if you’re unfamiliar with it, allow me to explain.
Victim blaming is when an individual comes forward to report a crime of some sort (although in the context of victim blaming the crime usually pertains to sexual assault or harassment), and as opposed to being heard, believed and supported by law enforcement, or whoever it is they have reported the crime to, they are instead blamed as the victim, and encouraged to believe that the crime that occurred is their fault. Victim blaming mostly occurs in sexual crimes because, statistically speaking, the majority of sexual assault victims are women; when they are assaulted and are cornered with victim blaming, they’re asked questions like What were you wearing? Why didn’t you try and stop him? Why did you allow yourself to end up in this situation?
It is a horrible happening, and, sadly, it happens all the time.
Blaine and I recently watched American Nightmare via Netflix. It tells the real story of two individuals, Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn, who were the targets of a home invasion turned kidnapping. I cannot even begin to express how angering this documentary is in regard to the victim blaming both Denise and Aaron were subjected to, and how poorly handled this entire case was. I’ve never heard of a case in which both the man and woman are treated so unjustly, mocked, bullied, and lied to, and, sadly, it is a fine example of victim blaming and all things wrong with the justice system.
Please watch this documentary and see for yourself. My heart breaks for Denise, Aaron, and their families.
Photo by Jose P. Ortiz on Unsplash
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