We definitely need to be having more conversations about rape culture.
Let’s reflect on Kenneka Jenkins. If you’re not familiar with the story, click the link here: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/police-12-people-involved-in-some-way-in-kenneka-jenkins-death/
Though the stories aren’t solid, one thing is true: Kenneka didn’t leave the hotel alive.
I saw a lot of posts blaming her friends. If Kenneka’s friends really set her up, that is terrible, but even then, they ain’t the only ones in the wrong here. I have yet to see one post or article about holding the alleged men accountable. If I am wrong, please, tag me in the posts holding the alleged boys accountable, or you can share the link in the comment section below. What I have seen is though, with each version of the story, are comments like these:
Where were her friends? Why was she alone?! What was she wearing? How short was her shirt? How low cut was it? Was she flirting?
I believe that these kinds of comments and conversations (especially when being led by women) enable men to continue to do whatever they want to us, removing themselves of blame for the choices they choose to make involving vulnerable women.
PLEASE NOTE: I am NOT saying that you should EVER leave your friends behind at a party or any social setting, whether they’re incapacitated or not. Please understand that. I am specifically saying that men should be held to a higher standard, and that they should control themselves at all times.
Period.
Please do not compare women to objects and say something like, “if you see money on the ground, and no one around, you gon pick it up, right?” Right, of course you would. In that regard: finding money and violating a drunk woman or violating her cause she ain’t fully dressed, or if she’s out walking alone are two entirely different things, y’all. Legally, morally, literally — they are two different things.
We’re showing the men that they don’t have to be accountable. It’s fucked up, it’s hurting us as women and a society, and we have to stop this shit.
There’s more I want to say, but for the sake of tears and time, I’ll save it for the show. Tune in this Thursday at 7PM as we discuss this topic. If you can’t wait til Thursday, please leave a comment below.
Peace,
April Bee