To the editor of the Indiana Daily Student,
I am writing in support of the column, “OPINION: We deserve proper wording around sexual violence from our media,” and I wanted to share my thoughts on the power of wording when it comes to discussing sexual violence in the media.
I agree with the columnist’s point on how the wording of IU’s definition of consent on the “It’s On Us” posters promotes victim-blaming language, making it seem like the recipient is in charge of preventing themselves from experiencing sexual violence by having to communicate the withdrawal of consent clearly. I agree with the crossed-out definition on the poster pictured in the column, and I see it as an act to remove victim-blaming language and the notion that the recipient needs a reason to withdraw consent to prove it as a “valid” withdrawal of consent. This change will empower survivors rather than requiring them to say specific things to be deemed to be deemed as a “valid” removal of consent.
I would also like to see the “It's On Us” posters highlight that it is on the initiator to recognize signs that consent is being withdrawn, through words, actions, body language, lack of participation, to name a few, and show respect when consent is being withdrawn. These posters could even highlight examples of when someone withdraws consent, expanding one’s perspective on how withdrawal of consent and rejection look in many different ways. According to a study from the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication, 40% of 71 stories it analyzed that covered sexual violence on U.S. college campuses used victim-blaming language, such as using a passive voice to frame article headlines.
Because of this, I urge all writers at the IDS to be mindful of how headlines are written and how coverage regarding sexual violence should use an active voice rather than a passive voice to directly address perpetrators of this violence, promote accountability for perpetrators’ actions, and remove victim-blaming language. The media is very powerful, and you all hold part of that power in the way that sexual violence is discussed in IU’s media. You have the ability to change the culture around sexual violence on campus through consistent recognition of when a passive voice is being used when covering news for the IDS and adjusting this language using an active voice.
This column is very important in creating conversation about using an active voice, even when it can be uncomfortable at times. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Emily Knight
A junior at IU majoring in social work.
