'Rape Mentality' - To the Editors of The Crimson
The author criticizes the Pi Eta Club newsletter for its explicit and violent sexual content, which she argues is not just sexist but "pro-rape." She explains that rape is defined as an act of violence where sex is used as a weapon, involving non-consensual penetration. She contends that the newsletter's language, which describes sexual acts in violent and dehumanizing terms, perpetuates a mentality that condones rape and the dehumanization of women. The author draws parallels between the attitudes expressed in the newsletter and those of men who support or commit rape. She also criticizes The Crimson for carrying ads for pornographic magazines, which she believes further promote the idea that male control of female sexuality is acceptable and more enjoyable when violent. She calls for society to acknowledge and confront the daily support of attitudes and actions that dehumanize and violate women. She concludes by highlighting the trauma such imagery can cause for rape survivors and questioning whether the author of the newsletter would reconsider their words if they understood the impact.Files
| Creator |
Hayes, Christine
|
|---|---|
| Publisher |
The Harvard Crimson
|
| Date |
1984-04-06
|
| Tags | Advocacy, Student Publications |
|---|---|
| Date Added | July 8, 2024 |
| Date Modifed | January 7, 2025 |
| Collection | Harvard and Sexual Assault |