In response to the sexual assault and harassment accusations against Harvey Weinstein, millions of women (and men) shared their stories of sexual violence on social media using the hashtag #MeToo. The campaign brought the issue to light and sparked conversations about what men can do to provide support. But in the wake of this social media frenzy, no concrete steps have been taken to address the underlying causes.
The problem with slacktivism campaigns like #MeToo is they rarely result in lasting change. We’ve seen similar calls to action with #YesAllWomen, #BeenRapedNeverReported and #ItsNotOkay, but they all fade over time. We know sexual assault is a problem. The question is, what are we going to do about it this time?
First, call it what it is. Sexual assault is an epidemic.
A recent survey found that over half of Canadian women have faced “unwanted sexual pressure.” One in three women will experience sexual assault. Rates are even higher for those in disadvantaged groups, including minorities, Indigenous people, disabled people and members of the LGBT community.
Sexual violence can have severe and lasting health impacts. Mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and even post-traumatic stress disorder are common. Stress can also cause physical symptoms including muscle pain, headaches, high blood pressure and weight gain and loss.
Considering the size of the issue and its significant health impacts, sexual assault should be considered as an illness that ails society. In fact, rates are similar to those for other diseases like obesity and cancer. We cannot afford to allow the problem to continue at this level, and should treat it like any other public health issue: try to prevent it before it occurs.
Currently, the focus is on prosecuting and punishing the offender. But many cases go unreported, and reported cases may not be believed or result in justice. Judges often blame the victim and sympathize with the offender. Even when justice is served, the victim must live with the memories for the rest of their life.
We must put more emphasis on preventing sexual assault before it happens and causes lasting harm. The responsibility for this must lie with potential abusers, and not potential victims.
So how do we do this?
We need to change our culture to value rather than demean women. In a society where catcalling is considered flattering, degrading “locker room talk” is acceptable, and women are objectified in media and pop culture, it’s easy to see why sexual harassment is so common.
Children should be taught about respectful and consensual relationships from a young age. Parents are valuable teachers and role models. School curriculums should also include more education on anti-bullying, bystander intervention, and violence prevention.
Public education on how to identify potential abusers and confront their behaviour could prevent sexual violence. Support should be available for people before they become potential offenders. This would help treat the root issues rather than letting them fester. Education should also be given to convicted offenders to reduce the chance of reoffending.
Society-wide campaigns that highlight the importance of consent are essential. Some groups are already taking steps in the right direction.
McGill and Concordia universities run mandatory consent workshops for students living in campus residences. These workshops also teach students how to intervene when they see others in need of help. Workshops like these are needed at universities across Canada, a place where sexual activity, drinking and partying are common.
The “Don’t Be That Guy” ad campaign puts the onus on men to be responsible for their behaviour, rather than blaming women for alcohol-related sexual assaults. The posters show images of women drinking or passed out with the message “sex without consent = sexual assault.” In just six months, the ads reduced sexual assault in Vancouver by 10 per cent. Imagine the results if this mindset was the norm in society.
The fact is, this change will not be easy. It will require action from individuals, organizations and the government. And it may take time for the change to occur. But if it reduces sexual assault in our society, it will be worth the effort and the wait.
Michelle Louie
St. John’s
