Posts by Soraya Chemaly
It’s Not ‘Forced Sex,’ It’s Rape – And Why Not Calling It That Is Dangerous
People will talk in all kinds of circles to avoid saying the word “rape.” But do you know about the dangerous affect that has on our world?
Read MoreStill Think Rape Jokes Are Harmless Fun?
Some people think its funny when boys joke about rape. They argue that people who speak out against those jokes, and the culture that encourages and allows them, are humorless. But those boys eventually turn into teenagers and men, some of whom DO commit actual sexual violence that predominately, but not exclusively, target women. This must stop now!
Read MoreDo You See These 10 Everyday Sexisms?
When women take note of sexism during their daily lives, they stop accepting it as “normal.” But, in general, sexism, so densely woven into our habits, language, and traditions, is a subtle and slippery thing. Research shows that most people don’t see sexism even when it’s right in front of their noses. How do you think about and respond to these 10 everyday sexisms?
Read MoreCameras, Consent and Conservative Rapeyness
We live with a deep and persistent societal tolerance for the use of women’s bodies by others for their own purposes, profit, political gain and entertainment. Cameras and harassment are the tip of an iceberg of male regulation of women’s bodies and behaviors. Legislation, based on a cultural acceptance of women’s bodies as public resources, is much more pernicious.
Read MoreTeen Girls: Depression, Anger and Powerlessness
Growing up as a young girl in our society can feel pretty messed up – especially when what’s messed up is normalized. Dealing with that can lead to depression and anger.
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