Heartbreaking, horrific news out of Richmond, California. A 15 year old girl was gang raped outside a school dance while at least a dozen people watched.
I can’t begin to fathom what went through the minds of the rapists or the onlookers. But I can tell you, crimes like this reinforce why we cannot tolerate sexist, demeaning treatment of women. No tolerance for “It’s just a joke, lighten up.” Or “It’s just a costume, what’s the harm?”
(Trigger warning) This link will take you to an excellent post on Shakesville that defines rape culture and outlines the different things that contribute to that culture. If you can read it, I recommend it.
“This dance itself was a successful event,” said Marin Trujillo, the West Contra Costa Unified School District spokesman.
http://www.theawl.com/2009/10/school-official-accentuates-the-positive
Oh, my Gosh! This makes my stomach turn. Dozens of people watched? They should ALL be prosecuted. Damn Fools.