Editor's note: This column includes mention of sexual violence. Resources are available here. All opinions, columns and letters reflect the views of the individual writer and not necessarily those of the IDS or its staffers.
To the editor of the IDS,
I’m writing in support of the recent column on the Indiana Daily Student, “OPINION: We deserve proper wording around sexual violence from our media.” This column highlights how the wording we use to describe sexual violence shapes how we understand it and the stigma around it. The poster suggests consent can only be withdrawn if it is clearly communicated and doesn’t take into account the lived experiences of the survivors of sexual violence.
That is an extremely harmful narrative for survivors of sexual violence and perpetuates the fear that these survivors already carry with them. In Indiana, 51% of women will experience sexual violence at some point in their lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control. This statistic shows how widespread the issue is and highlights how important it is to use language that does not put blame on the survivor.
As a social work student, I have been able to research domestic violence policies in Indiana this semester. This research has emphasized how often the systems we have in place fail survivors who have experienced domestic violence and sexual violence. The IDS’ recent column sends a very important message to people about how the words we use shape how we think about violence and treat survivors of violence in situations that are already complicated to navigate.
If IU were so serious about making their campus a safer and more inclusive place, I believe they would change this wording to send a more survivor-centered message. This column is exactly the kind of advocacy we need to seek change at IU, and I would urge you to create more content related to this. As a future social worker, I think it is extremely important to use your voice and advocate for changes in the wording we use around sexual violence, and I encourage the IDS to continue to do the same.
Best,
Mya MacAleese
428 E. Varsity Lane
Bloomington, Indiana 47408
